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Danbury animal welfare society

User Reviews (178)

1. Excellent Service

by: Aleistiana

DAWS is absolutely a wonderful shelter. The staff at DAWS are very patient, respectful, caring, kind, loving staff and the volunteers are truly remarkable. I give them alot of credit. God bless all the staff including the volunteers, and all the animals. Keep up the excellent work.

Pros

Wonderful Staff

Cons

Needs help with donations

2. Fantastic Shelter

by: libby2009

I adopted a cat from the shelter and I love her so much. When I got the cat home she adjusted immediately because at the shelter the staff there gave her lots of attention and love. Everyone at the shelter is very helpful and can answer any question that might arise about any pet up for adoption. My experience with this shelter was great and I would recommend them to anyone who is interested in adopting a pet. I especially liked their website which was updated with pictures and a little biography about each pet up for adoption I found this very helpful. Even after adopting a pet the staff is very accessible by email for any questions which might arise after the pet comes home. The pets at this shelter get plenty of attention and lots of love. Thanks for my new best friend!

Pros

Fantastic pets,staff and website

Cons

none

3. DAWS is great!!!

by: LisaMariakakis

I've only been a volunteer at DAWS since May, but in that short period of time, I am proud to volunteer with the other terrific people that spend their time helping in any way possible! DAWS is an amazing organization!!

Pros

Great volunteers!

Cons

Nothing!

4. Not the best

by: puppiesloveme

They don't take in dogs from their own area

Pros

not sure

Cons

They don't anwser there phones

5. DAWS

by: Kelsington

I have adopted two dogs from this shelter that I love very much. However, the facility wasn't very clean and the staff was not very friendly. \r\nThey do though keep their dogs until they can be placed, even if it is a very long time. Two dogs that sat at their shelter that I remember being a pit "Blaze" and a GSD "Kano".

Pros

Good selection of dogs

Cons

Not a fan of the facility

6. good and caring staff

by: alkirner

a shelter that has provided a good service by helping dogs and cats get adopted

Pros

clean shelter with caring volunteers

Cons

none

7. Not very nice

by: ztT4MP29305691

The place is messy and they are not helpful. If you have more than 1 child they won't give you an animal. They do not have the animals best interests in mind.

Pros

none

Cons

don't adopt the animals out!

8. A godsend

by: Tinydancer

I adopted my chihuahua mix from DAWS last year. Aside from the fact that he is the SWEETEST dog, I can't say enough things about my positive adoption experience through DAWS. The staff is caring and responsive. They are clearly devoted to the animals and committed to finding them good homes.

Pros

These people really care about animals

Cons

The location is a bit out of the way

9. Against DAWS as finalist in makeover contest.

by: ztT4MP83552863

My daughter & her 2 children, ages4 & 8 at the time, visited DAWS several times to visit a dog. The staff did not want a dog going to a home with 2 children, and my daughter had to return often to prove to the staff that the children were good with the dog. The day we went to pick up the dog, the workers were rude, made us wait & wait several hours, served others who came after us, and did not answer our questions. My daughter was a very nervous that these workers would reject her family, based wholly on the manner in which we were treated. I heard one worker ask another about hearing loss. When I asked if they were talking about our chosen dog, they denied it. They "assured" us the dog had been "thoroughly" checked by their vet. "If he had a hearing problem, the vet would have picked that up". We finally left with our dog, hours later. After having the dog home for several days, we all decided that he was stone deaf. He did not respond to even the loudest noise. He did not even detect vibrations. Needless to say, the family had grown attached to this dog. It does not take long. My daughter called DAWS to tell them, to ask why they had lied, and to ask for advice. No one wanted to talk with her about the dog, saying we must be mistaken. This dog is a member of the family still, but all normal communication is out. Not even a "Good dog" can be said. So, we do not recommend DAWS receive $1 MILLION from you. A lesser amount would be fine.

Pros

DAWS takes care of dogs & finds them homes.

Cons

My daughter had a very negative experiencewith this shelter.

10. my daughter's involvement

by: ztT4MP87124094

we are grateful that such a place exists & are happy to donate to make sure it is still around for all the strays in the area

Pros

worth the travel

Cons

far from our little town

11. My Salvation

by: vkichler

I didn't realize that I was depressed after my only child went off to college. As a single working mother I would come home from work, maybe fix some supper, maybe not and head up to my room to the TV and the internet until the next day. \r\nI have lived literally around the corner from DAWS for a decade, but until a gorgeous sunny Sunday this last October I didn't realize how lonely I was. I took a drive and saw lots of dogs being walked up and down the road and groups of people with dogs in front of the building.\r\nI decided right then that I would just go in and look. After flipping through the pages of their catalog of dogs needing homes, I made the decision that a dog would give me the companionship I needed, and I feel in love with the rat terrier in the book. I filled out an application, and one of the volunteers explained everything, and I mean everything. I know they check references, because my friend told me they asked whether I would be a good pet owner.\r\nThey also let me visit my guy every evening so we could bond before I took him home that Friday evening. (When they called me Tuesday evening to say my application was accepted I was so happy; it was like winning the lottery!)\r\nEveryone at DAWS has been wonderful. Their place is a place of love; the animals deserve a new shelter since they have experienced traumatic events in their blameless lives.\r\n

Pros

They really love animals

Cons

They need more room

12. We Love all of the people at DAWS!

by: ginnymck

We adopted a wonderful dog named Gordon 3 weeks ago from DAWS. He is a gentle, sweet dog with a wonderful disposition. When we picked him up, we were told he was having some problems with a nervous stomach. We were told to call if it got worse, which it did. Not only was Gordon picked up at our home, he was taken to the Vet and given medical attention. He went back to DAWS so he could get better. We hope to bring him home in the next few days. We are very thankful to Jean, Lynn and the many other volunteers who gave us daily updates on his condition and were most accomodating on our many visits. \r\n\r\nThank you\r\nThe McKinstry family

Pros

Friendly, caring and understanding

Cons

small reception area

13. Enthusiastic Volunteers where the animals come first

by: CindyLou2090

My Dad adopted a wonderful Border Collie Mix - Bogey, from DAWS and they have been inseparable ever since - Bogey keeps him very active

Pros

Animals come first and Potential Pet Parents are checked out carefully

Cons

None

14. Wonderful collaborators

by: angelajones

Although I have never visited DAWS, I have to thank your organization for helping so many pets here in Kentucky. I know DAWS works with my local shelter (the Bowling Green-Warren County Humane Society) to rescue as many dogs as possible. In fact, I believe your group contributed to the HW treatment for a senior dog I fostered for and then adopted from my humane society. Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do!

Pros

works with shelters in need

Cons

none I can think of

15. Thank you, DAWS

by: mallyptz

I adopted from DAWS and would do it again! They were very helpful and patient -- kind to all of the animals and concerned for their proper placement. Good luck, DAWS!

Pros

fantastic staff, very helpful

Cons

none -- honestly!

16. Hard Working Volunteers

by: Ronnie53

This shelter has one of the largest selections of cats and dogs in the area. The volunteers who showed the animals were knowledgeable and very helpful.\r\n\r\nThey could use more space to show & house their animals. Repairs are also needed to their building.

Pros

Non-Profit & No Kill

Cons

Improvements & Repairs needed to Building

17. LOVE THIS PLACE

by: YMZ

THis place is awesome. They truly care about all of their animals and research and follow up on the animals they place to be sure they are in loving, caring homes. This place is deserving of all praise.

Pros

They truly love their animals

Cons

NONE

18. A great shelter

by: baileydogs

The people who run this shelter really care for these animals. They go above and beyond what they have to do to help the cats and dogs at the shelter find homes, as well as helping cats and dogs nationwide that are in high kill shelters.\r\nKudos to DAWS.

Pros

Caring staff

Cons

no cons

19. Thank you, DAWS, for saving so many cats and dogs

by: JABanimallover

DAWS should be commended for rescuing a large number of cats and dogs. Their in-house training program for dogs has helped a large number of dogs become adoptable pets.\r\n\r\nDAWS really needs better facilities. On the dog side of the facility, they have only a tiny indoor room where dogs can get a break from their cages and be in a "real world" setting. This also is the office and where dog-human introductions that take place indoors happen (other than a utility room with washing machines, etc.). Every time it rains, a huge puddle forms in the driveway and lasts for days. This eliminates a large portion of the outdoor space used to walk and exercise the dogs. These are but two of the many needs this shelter has.

Pros

Dedicated volunteers;has saved many animals

Cons

Needs better facilities

20. We LOVE You!

by: deanawehr

DAWS has helped our shelter for 6+ years and has rescued a lot of animals from our shelter that would have otherwise been euthanized for room. They always send us updates when animals they pull from us get adopted and always taken whenever they can, they are easy to work w/ and do a great job @ finding their animals wonderful homes! They are an excellent rescue and many of our dogs would die w/out their help! They just took several from us this Saturday!

Pros

Amazing Rescue

Cons

wish they were closer

21. I owe DAWS for giving me my pal!

by: Lesmar123

I was very lucky to adopt my orange tabby Sinbad from Daws one year ago. He is the sweetest, most affectionate cat and I can't imagine my life without him.

Pros

Very caring, knowledgeable staff.

Cons

none

22. BEST SHELTER

by: barbysanlu

I HAVE ADOPTED MY 2 PETS FROM DAWS. I COULDN'T HAVE FOUND A MORE PERFECT DOG FOR MY FAMILY!! THE STAFF WAS TERRIFIC AT KNOWING WHICH ANIMAL WOULD BE THE BEST FOR MY FAMILY. I CAN'T SAY ENOUGH GOOD THINGS ABOUT DAWS. UNFORTUNATLEY ONE OF THE CATS I ADOPTED HAD TO BE RETURNED TO DAWS BECAUSE OF HIS DIFFICULTY ADJUSTING TO THE DOG (WE HAD THE DOG 1ST) BUT I KNEW THEY WOULD FIND HIM ANOTHER GREAT HOME.\r\nTHE ANIMALS THAT COME FROM A SHELTER JUST SEEM TO BE FOREVER GREATFUL OF THEIR NEW HOMES.

Pros

GREAT STAFF -

Cons

NONE

23. dedicated & friendly staff

by: fsems08

Our shelter has worked with DAWS for several years now, and we have been very impressed with them, they are a great group of people to work with, and work very hard to find great homes for all of their animals.. \r\n\r\nIt is so nice to see them in the top 20 on Zoo Too, it is great to know that they have such support from their community!

Pros

dedicated group of people

Cons

none

24. An excellent organization!

by: IResQK9sNKy

Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS) is a great organization full of very caring people. Our shelter has worked with them for several years now and they've saved many a life from our shelter. We transport dogs up north on a regular basis and they've pulled so many animals from us ... they find them loving, caring homes and we're so grateful for all they've done.

Pros

caring people working for a great cause

Cons

none found

25. Dedicated volunteers

by: bammcd

You can't top the volunteers at DAWS. The give so much attention and love to the animals. Their knowledge of each pet's personality and needs is crucial in making a successful match into a new home. I think they're all great people to give of their time and energy in this way!!

Pros

Hardworking and dedicated volunteers

Cons

They need a better facility.

26. No Kill Shelter

by: lisadon

There are not many shelters around that are volunteer run, non-profit and no kill. How DAWS has done this for over 30 Year's is amazing.\r\n\r\nWe hope you win the makeover!!! \r\n

Pros

No Kill & Volunteer Run

Cons

Shelter bldg is falling apart

27. Fabulous

by: pogobuddy

This is a wonderful no-kill shelter that makes every attempt to place animals in the perfect homes!

Pros

Wonderful place to adopt!

Cons

none

28. A loving environment for animals

by: mlivings

I have been a volunteer at this shelter for 6 months now. When I first saw the shelter I was amazed at the space and freedom the cats had to roam around. They even have a small outdoor area to play in. It struck me as a place where cats could feel at home while they wait to find their forever home. It is wonderful to hear all the stories from happy adopters and their new pets.

Pros

Caring people working together to help animals.

Cons

The building could use updating and a better layout.

29. A Home Away From home

by: thabbate

This is the nicest shelter that i have ever visited. One side of the facility is for cats; the other for dogs. On the cat side, each cat has a personal cage, but is generally allowed to lounge in the large room on comfy couches and chairs, in kitty-condos, etc. The staff knows their personalities and provides for their needs. Cats who are not as well-socialized or who have special needs are placed in another room which is also large and clean. The volunteers are assigned to certain kittens and cats who need to learn socializing skills. The animals are never overwhelmed with too much activity but are given good stimuation. The cats medical needs are addressed on a regular basis. This is a no kill shelter. If I were a lost or abandoned cat, this is where I would want to be!!!!

Pros

Great respect for the animals ina homey environment

Cons

None

30. DAWS is the best!

by: Vickysmom

I adopted both of my dogs from DAWS. I am so impressed with their dedication to the animals, their professionalism and their organization. They are very careful about adoptive families. As much as they want their animals to be placed into homes, they will deny unsuitable adoption applications. They are very honest in their description of their animals. They won't try to snow you.\n\nAfter the adoption, they follow up. They will help with any problems. If worst comes to worst, they will take the animal back into their shelter.\n\nWhen the weather is bad, I think of the devoted DAWS volunteers who take care of their animal charges no matter what!\n\nDAWS volunteers are so concerned about homeless animals that they will travel great distances to rescue from high-kill shelters and from other hardship situations.\n\nI can't praise them enough!

Pros

Caring people

Cons

Needs a makeover

31. DAWS Wants Good Homes For Their Animals!

by: LizMc

They care about the animals SO much! The animals they have there are always perfect! They know whatanimal is JUST right for you and your family!

Pros

REALLY care about their animals!!!

Cons

None

32. Puppy

by: Krisztinaism56

We just came back from the shelter, we applied for a puppy and have never met a more knowledgeable, sweet team of a staff. The only thing that can improve this shelter is a makeover! They need it for the animals! This is the best shelter my family and I have ever adopted from. And we are looking foward to adopt from them again.

Pros

Amazing staff, loves to help

Cons

The shelter needs this makeover!!

33. Great place to get your pets from

by: CatherineMc

DAWS is a great place to adopt a pet. They care about the animals and want to find them a good home.They can pick out the best pets for you. DAWS is a caring community and a great place for dogs to live!

Pros

They really care about the animals!

Cons

None

34. A HEART OF GOLD

by: ANNEWOLPERT

"D"EDICATED, "A"FFECTIONATE, "W"ARMHEARTED AND "S"ELFLESS) IS WHAT I CALL D.A.W.S. \nMY EXPERIENCE ADOPTING CHI CHI, MY LITTLE POMERANIAN WAS WONDERFUL. THE STAFF IS SO LOVING AND KIND AND HAVE ALL THE ANIMALS BEST INTERESTS IN MIND. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE FACT THAT THEY PLACE THESE FURRY LITTLE FRIENDS WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN APPROVED, AND NOT JUST HANDED OVER TO ANYONE. THIS WELFARE SOCIETY IS MOST DESERVING TO WIN THE MAKE OVER.

Pros

DEDICATED STAFF

Cons

TIGHT QUARTERS

35. An amazing center

by: RobinThongkham

It's amazing how dedicated the volunteers are are and how connected they are with the animals even after they are placed. They understand what a sense of urgency is with each and every animal and seek out those that are able to provide a loving and nurturing home. In all, they deserve the makeover to support current and future animals

Pros

The volunteers

Cons

needs a makeover

36. very deserving

by: vanessasmom

We adopted Miss V from here in July 2005. There were very helpful & kept in touch thru the whole process. We were allowed as much time as we needed with her to decide she was the one & there was no pressure to adopt any animal it was all up to us. I also love that they check your background before you can take the animal home so noone ends up in a bad situation. I truly believe my girly had a troubled past that ended when she was brought up north from West Virginia to DAWS. We are greatful to them for bringing her here for us & they deserve some help in return.

Pros

no kill shelter !!

Cons

A little far from my house

37. DAWS - volunteer-run shelter of caring volunteers

by: ElaineZito

Danbury Animal Welfare Society has given second chances to hundreds of dogs and cats for the past 30+ years.\r\nServicing the greater Danbury, CT area volunteers are dedicated to providing shelter and placement in loving homes to the animals in their care. They have ongoing outreach programs of community awareness teaching pet care and safety, trap/neuter/release program for feral cats, and a low cost program program to help pet owners who cannot afford to spay/neuter their pets, to name a few of their services. I know that they are very dedicated to assist in lowering the over-population of feral cats in the Danbury area, and that each year approximately 150-200 cats are spay/neutered through the trap/neuter/realse program equaling thousands of unwanted feral cats not born to feral colonies each year. I have also adopted a pet from DAWS and have always been treated with thoughtfullness and I am happy to know that their first priority is the welfare of the animals in their care.

Pros

Cons

Limited funds and space, shelter in need of new facility

38. Totally Deserves a makeover

by: evi

Danbury Animal Welfare is a wonderfully dedicated group of folks who want the animals in their care to find perfect homes. They are careful with placement and the volunteers are just amazing. There is never a doubt that these people are there 100% for the animals... Great job!

Pros

This is a dedicated group of folks who care

Cons

Our shelter is a little small for our growing population

39. adopted cats from shelter

by: loreato

We adopted 2 cats over they years that we have lived in bethel. It is a small building and they could really use more space!

Pros

adopted 2 cats from shelter

Cons

they need more room

40. A wonderful shelter

by: Piratica

We adopted two lovable kittens from DAWS that we absolutely adore. Before that we were a foster family for kittens. They never put down their cats or dogs and even take in friendly creatures on death row at other shelters. Their volunteers are all knowledgeable and compassionate and really care about all the creatures that pass through their doors.

Pros

DAWS is a wonderful place that doesn't destroy unadopted animals

Cons

It is a small facility

41. Animals Are Loved

by: Sharona880

We adoped our two wonderful cats from DAWS. This is a no-kill shelter and the animals are wonderfully cared for. The cats have an outdoor play area, and plenty of room inside. The staff and volunteers keep careful watch and if anyone seems sick they are immediately taken care of by a vet. Our kitties are so happy and the staff was more than helpful during the adoption process. We even had our adoption counselor's cell phone number if we needed anything. -- they even volunteered to come clip their nails! We are very thankful to have this shelter nearby.

Pros

Wonderfully cared for animals, devoted volunteers

Cons

none

42. Found a Friend

by: jodiklein

Even though the place is small there is still lots of love.\r\nWe found our Jezabel at DAWS, rather she found us. She loves our large german shepard. I refer all my friends to the DAWS when they are looking new pets.\r\nI hope they win, they deserve it.

Pros

Separate outside areas to meet and greet the dogs

Cons

Small and old quarters

43. Great animals need for space.

by: cwgreen

Visit their shelter everyone was great! showed me many needy pets looking for their "Forever Home" They really need more space as they are a no kill shelter! they spend lots of time with the animals so they can go home with the right family. Wish I could take all the animals home. Hope people will visit and adopt them soon!

Pros

Makes their pets so adoptable

Cons

Needs more space for pets!

44. DAWS

by: RMMBTHL

DAWS great staff helped us find the perfect addition to our family.

Pros

Great staff

Cons

Needs makeover!

45. DAWS

by: WERNER

VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND HELPFUL STAFF.EXTREMELY CLEAN BUILDING,AREAS OF BUILDING SEVERELY OUTDATED.LOTS OF LOVING PETS AWAITING ADOPTION.

Pros

HELPFUL STAFF,VERY CLEAN

Cons

OUTDATED BUILDING

46. DAWS is a home run

by: RuthieD

We hit a homerun when we adopted one of our dogs, they were welcoming, helpful, and the dogs were their top priority. They were patient and very up front about the process. I have recommended DAWS to many friends and my husbands brother adopted a dog and they are the best pair ever. Our dogs also go to Wags (a doggy daycare center) and they are involved with DAWS, I love that my dogs socialize and help the shelter dogs. We donate supplies yearly, along with a family "drive" to donate supplies even though it's been four years since we adopted. They will always have a place in our lives. (We often check their webpage to see who is available - and cheer when dogs are adopted!) They do a SUPER Job!

Pros

Conscienious, Animal Focused, Caring

Cons

none that I am aware of

47. Great place!

by: MelliJ

We've donated items to them each of the last few years. Every time we go, they invite us in to visit with some of the kitties. It's so nice of them to do that! We really enjoy our visits there, and feel great doing something nice for the animals.

Pros

Nice people, well kept

Cons

Smaller, older building.

48. Adopted my two babies from DAWS!

by: Suz123

My husband and I adopted our two cats from DAWS. They are now 6 years old and doing well. \n\nDAWS helped me with several feral cats that I had at my house. They helped with the trapping, spaying and neutering. \n\nThey have many compassionate volunteers who help find wonderful homes many cats and dogs. Thank you!!!

Pros

Will help no matter what

Cons

needs more room

49. They truely love all the animals

by: jpethybridge

My wife and I have adopted two dogs and two cats from DAWS. They take such great care of each and everyone of the poor creatures that end up there. The facillity is in need of much repair, but that doesn't mean that anything is lacking at the shelter. Great care is given to all who resided there. A pet counselor will meet with you to find out what cat or dog will fit your life style. When we adopted the dogs, Ben and Chino, they made sure that each one would get along with the other dog in our household. A meeting takes place at the shelter to make sure the match is right and that the pooches will get along with each other. The staff at the shelter do all that they can to make sure that each animal is taken care of, emotionally and physically. Lots of love at that shelter!\n\n

Pros

Caring staff, No kill shelter

Cons

None

50. Great place to adopt an animal

by: MartyXC

I can't believe how helpful these people are. They made it so easy to adopt my dog.

Pros

Good location and great people.

Cons

needs more space

51. Great Website

by: GloriaCasey

DAWS has a great website and the volunteers that write the 'bio's of the animals waiting to be adopted have a nice way with words... it captures your interest and makes you want to meet the dog or cat ... there was a bio and photo of a dog name Happy, and I actually think they got the dog to smile for the camera. All this is indicative of the love and warmth one finds at the Danbury Animal Welfare Shelter.

Pros

DAWS has a great website

Cons

Can't think of any.

52. Great people, good work.

by: BeagleMom1

The people at Daws helped us with Homer when we weren't sure whether we could/would keep him. They arranged for him to be neutered for a lesser cost than the Vet and possibly put up for adoption through them. But in the end we decided to keep him and they were even happier with that.\r\nThey do a great job and even though they do, I wish it wasn't necessary for them to do it. But as long as people aren't responsible enough, I am sure DAWS will continue to do what needs to be done.

Pros

A good animal shelter with people that care.

Cons

*

53. wonderfull Cause

by: foxywench

such great people and such a great place.\r\nif it wasnt for the noise disturbing the neighborhood it would get a perfect 5

Pros

great cause

Cons

middle of a housing neighborhood, shelter needs UPGRADES

54. DAWS rules!

by: bfowlerct

My friend volunteers at DAWS and tells me what a great place it is for the homeless animals. It would be great for DAWS to get a new shelter!\r\n\r\n

Pros

Clean

Cons

None

55. They do so much with so little

by: brucecaplin

This shelter has a very committed volunteer staff that is absolutely essential to their work. The dog committee is innovative, hard working and successful.\n\nThe dogs are all enrolled in a play date, rehabilitation and training program that keeps their minds active and happy.

Pros

They are doing a great job rescuing, caring for and placing dogs and cats

Cons

Like many shelters, they are underfunded

56. a wonderful, caring organization!

by: cmcarlucci

DAWS is a truly special organization. Each rescued animal is treated like a beloved personal pet. I have served as a foster mom for kittens and cats for 2 years and adopted 2 cats from DAWS and I am continually amazed at the excellent care each animal receives!

Pros

very knowledgable and caring volunteers - wonderful animal care!!

Cons

none!

57. What a great place!

by: larcar

Our son volunteers at DAWS and tells us what a great place this shelter is for the homeless animals. The volunteer staff is great, and animals are treated so well! There are lots of fundraisers and donations, but simply not enough to complete any major renovations...think what could be accomplished with a brand new shelter!!

Pros

Adopts out many homeless animals, no kill shelter.

Cons

Needs some major renovations!

58. Our cats are DAWS cats and proud of it!

by: Dougal

We found all of our cats at DAWS. The counselors were fantastic, very supportive, and helped us find the best cats ever. Thanks, DAWS! Good luck!

Pros

Great group of volunteers

Cons

run-down facility

59. It's the Best

by: kataubert

I was involved as a volunteer with DAWS when I livedi in CT and served a term as President. I can tell you that this organization is among the best in all categories of not-for-profit organizations. DAWS is totally volunteer owned and operated, and for almost 40 years has been operating as a "no-kill" shelter finding homes for abandoned and abused animals, and making it work. I can think of no better organization to benefit from this extraordinary opportunity, to allow it to do more good works for the hundreds of cats and dogs (and other animals) it helps each year.\r\nI am proud to be a supporter of DAWS to date, even though I am now a resident of FLorida.\r\nKathryn Taubert

Pros

puts the animals first. Volunteer owned and operated. Efficient.

Cons

none, other than the need for more space and updated facilities.

60. DAWS is awesome

by: LizDeschnow

DAWS is a great place to meet and adopt a pet. We adopted our dog from DAWS, and she's the best thing in our lives. The staff is kind and make you feel right at home. Our dog was a SATO rescue dog and had been hit by a car. The title with her picture on the DAWS website was "please help a special girl", but this special girl has helped us more than we could ever have imagined. I've never met more compassionate animal lovers. What the staff at DAWS does is amazing and admirable. We are forever indebted to them all for taking such good care of our girl until she came into our lives.

Pros

We got our baby

Cons

We didn't visit DAWS sooner

61. DAWS IS THE PURRFECT PLACE TO ADOPT FROM

by: JCT53

My current cat was adopted from DAWS. The volunteers were very helpful. They took the time to make sure it was just the right cat for me, and that I was the right home for the cat. It was a match made in heaven and we both think DAWS volunteers are Purrfect!!!! \r\n\r\n

Pros

No Kill Shelter

Cons

Shelter needs updating

62. DAWS is "paws"itively wonderful!

by: redeemedrn

DAWS is a great place. We adopted a dog from there. I love the way they have a book to look through and then bring the dog to meet you instead of just walking people through the kennels.

Pros

Great committed volunteers who truly love their involvement!

Cons

Shelter has been outgrown and needs a makeover!! :-)

63. These folks have a great love and compassion for the ophans in their care.

by: AnneM

These folks go above the norm to educate the new adoptive families on the care of the animals they adopt. Their love for the animals is evident and they really try hard to match the orphans with new parents.

Pros

They are caring and try real hard to educate every adoptive family.

Cons

Small facility could use some money to update.

64. Special Place

by: Zazzy101

DAWS is a special organization that dearly loves their orphan animals. All potential adopters are thoroughly evaluated before taking home their new furry friend.

Pros

Staff and volunteers do a phenominal job

Cons

none

65. DAWS, a wonderful refuge for cats and dogs

by: LisaAshla

DAWS is a wonderful shelter for dogs and cats. The volunteers are amazing and have a deep love for animals. DAWS incorporates formal training for the dogs to help them in the adoption process. The buidling could really use some TLC to make it warm and welcoming not only to the public but also for the animals.

Pros

Lots of friendly dogs and cats up for adoption

Cons

Not the most welcoming looking place - needs updates

66. Danbury needs our help!

by: FJBory

Our daughter wanted a dog of her own when she bought a home 2 years ago. We all went to DAWS to see what they had. The staff was wonderful and quickly understood the size and type of animal that would make her happy. She selected a hound mix that has a wonderful personality and is very loving. I believe that is due to the people at DAWS; their knowledge and experience at identifying the right animal for the person.

Pros

Excellent and caring staff. Well cared for animals.

Cons

Outdated facility that is too small for the needs of Danbury.

67. Lots of love here

by: piskwa

Talk to any of the volunteers here and you will feel the love they have for the cats and dogs! They are extremely dedicated and hard-working. Kudos and best of luck with the makeover.

Pros

You can feel the love!

Cons

needs facelift, more space

68. Danbury Animal Welfare brings friends together!

by: PepperOni

We adopted our dog Pepper from Danbury Animal welfare Society and after seeing the high level of dedication and compassion from the volunteers and staff, it prompted me to get involved and become a volunteer myself. \r\n\r\nEveryone at Danbury Animal Welfare Society truly has the best interest of the cats and dogs residing there in mind. The animals are the #1 priority. \r\n\r\nIt would be hard to find anyone as dedicated as this group of volunteers and staff. The adoption counselors make sure that the cats and dogs are matched with the best suitable adopters so that the animals never have to be in a bad situation again.

Pros

Dedication. Compassion. Knowledge of Animals. Best interest of animals in mind.

Cons

Needs shelter updated.

69. Very Dedicated Volunteers

by: RuthS

DAWS has the most dedicated volunteers. \r\nSome of the volunteers work as many hours volunteering as they do with their full time job. That's dedication!!!\r\n

Pros

Dedicated Volunteers, Welfare of the animals comes first

Cons

Shelter falling apart

70. Great Organization

by: freespirit53

My husband and I adopted all three of our cats from DAWS and each time had a great experience. DAWS is almost all volunteers and they are a dedicated caring group of people. It is amazing what they do with limited space and funding.

Pros

No kill shelter

Cons

Not enough room to take in more animals

71. Wonderful Shelter

by: badserra

I came to Danbury Animal Welfare Society after the death of my beloved kitty Stimpy. I never thought I would recover from his loss - but thought I might be able to help another kitty by giving him a home. DAWS made me feel welcome and offered me a kind word and helped me pick the perfect kitty. 4 cats later, I became a volunteer and have been with them for the past 5 years. I love the organization and what they are doing to help homeless and neglected animals in their community.

Pros

Friendly, knoweldgeable, animal loving

Cons

none

72. Love DAWS

by: jmmastra

DAWS is wonderful! I have adopted two cats and was a volunteer. I moved away and I miss not only the animals but the volunteers terribly. Everyone is so dedicated to finding the very best home for every animal that finds its way to DAWS. It is a great shelter!\r\n

Pros

Friendly volunteers

Cons

Shelter is too small and can not accommodate all the animals that need care.

73. The Best Shelter in Connecticut!

by: lulupethybridge

My husband and I have adopted 2 dogs and 2 cats from DAWS. They are the kindest and most hard working people I have ever met. Any time the need donations we always try to give what we can. If anyone deserves the top spot is this shelter! A++++++++ all the way!

Pros

Great volunteers!

Cons

None!

74. Very dedicated volunteers

by: BigAl47

Not even rain, snow, sleet or a holiday keeps the dedicated volunteers @ DAWS away from taking care of the animals.\r\n

Pros

Dedicated volunteers, welfare of the animals comes first

Cons

None

75. DAWS - bringing pets to their forever homes

by: Joycie

I was first introduced to DAWS by a co-worker and volunteer at DAWS. I had recen tly lost my beloved Louis , who had been with me for 14 years. I was ready to adopt again. She first directed me to the website, which was full of fabulous photos and wonderful descriptions of the animals for adoption. I was looking for two cats. The webite gave me the opportunity to "get aquainted" with the cats in need of adoption. From the website I was able to choose two that I was interested in and arranged to meet them to see if we made a "love connection". My hat is off to DAWS, they were so compassionate about my recent loss, they gave me time with all the cats and full tour of the facility. The cats are well cared for and I was impressed with their dedication and attention to detail. They carefully screen their adoptions, checking references and vet histories, which is ESSENTIAL to a succesful adoption. I highly recommend them and support their efforts by sponsoring as much and as often as I possibly can.

Pros

Caring, compassionate, dedicated

Cons

None

76. great!

by: squeaky82

Very helpful staff of volunteers

Pros

staff

Cons

none!

77. Best Cats around!!

by: KitKat03

If you are looking for a cat look no further than DAWS.\r\nThey have a huge selection and the counselors were very helpful. They took the time to make sure the cat we choose was just right for us and our other cat. \r\nWe appreciated that they went the extra mile for us.\r\nGood luck and we hope you win!!!!!

Pros

Excellent selection of cats & helpful counselors

Cons

None

78. great place!

by: katie110283

DAWS is a great place. Volunteers care so much about the animals and do their best to match them to their forever homes

Pros

great place, care so much about the animals

Cons

need a makeover

79. Total Supporter

by: Kalimonster

It is great that when looking to take home a pet that you have a variety to try to match personality and type of lifestyle, however its sad to say there is too much choice. (Too many homeless).\r\n\r\nThis organization has been doing great work. I was sad that they did not hold the silent auction this year.\r\n\r\nThey have a fab website however it would be great if they could get pix of kittens on line.

Pros

Caring volunteers. Variety of choice, great website

Cons

no photo's on line of kittens. Too much choice

80. They really care

by: meredithbilly

The volunteers really care about the well being of all the animals they have at their shelter.\r\nThe shelter is in need of repair.

Pros

Caring dedicated volunteers

Cons

Shelter in need of repair

81. Very dedicated and caring!

by: Bethbogey

DAWS has a very knowledgable staff and very dedicated too!The animals are so very lucky.

Pros

Awesome volunteers

Cons

building needs help

82. best place to get a pet

by: astro

staff will take the time to make sure you find the right pet

Pros

great staff

Cons

none

83. Great Place to Volunteer AND Adopt

by: BBRed

I love volunteering here at DAWS, the people are all so caring and compassionate about the animals. When we tuck them in at night with their blankets and treats, we can rest that they are all in a safe environment waiting for their forever homes. \r\nEnzo was at DAWS, and I gave him a forever home with his older 'stepbrother' Kody!\r\n

Pros

Caring Compassionate Staff

Cons

In desperate need of repairs/updates

84. DAWS in one of the best shelters in the area!

by: lilpeanuthead

DAWS has great people as well as great animals! Who you deal with makes a difference in your adoption experience as well as desire to volunteer and even donate! Thanks to the DAWS staff for all they do.

Pros

People, training, services, fundraising events

Cons

logistics really need a makeover! more room for adoption intros, more space for animals!

85. GREAT Place

by: KATTREIN

DAWS does a lot of great work for the community. Besides helping to find homes for all the animals, they provide low cost spay/neuter, and trap, spay/neuter & release the ferel cats as well.\r\nKeep up all the good work!

Pros

Wonderful Staff

Cons

The shelter really needs work

86. Love DAWS

by: BQuint

I love DAWS. I got both of my kitties from them. The staff was wonderful. If I were to ever get another cat, I would definitely go to DAWS!

Pros

very knowledgeable, friendly

Cons

They need more room for their animals

87. DAWS ROCKS

by: Wkennen

I have really enjoyed my visits and adoption from DAWS. I can't say enough about this establishment. It is an absolute delight to experience an adoption through their knowledgeable and cordial staff, in their relaxed, pleasant atmosphere. There seems to be a high turnover rate, and that makes me happy to know that the animals are finding homes. Kudos to you, DAWS!

Pros

Knowledgeable staff, clean environment

Cons

none

88. a very special place

by: den27nis

this is a very special place - we adopted two cats and the staff was excellent helping us choose cats (or was it that the cats chose us...) that were right for our family.\n\n\n

Pros

clean, caring staff

Cons

they could use more resources to provide for more animals

89. DAWS is incredible!

by: jehartman

DAWS does great work not only sheltering dogs and cats from their area, but also transporting dogs to Connecticut from other parts of the country, including Puerto Rico, where they participate in the Save-A-Sato program. Their dedication in finding homes for these animals is unmatched and they should be commended for their incredible work. Thanks, DAWS!!

Pros

No-kill shelter

Cons

None

90. DAWS IS GREAT

by: HugeCatTinyDog

DAWS is a household name if you live in the greater Danbury area. The staff is friendly and helpful, and you can really tell that they all love animals and have a deep passion about their wellbeing.

Pros

awesome staff that love animals

Cons

how can there be a con about an animal shelter?

91. Adoption

by: Lizsmith

when we went looking for a dog and found our Inca she was a great dog, very fun and outgoing. However, after we picked her up we found that she had issues with my husband even though she had met him. We called DAWS and had a person on the phone within an hour then the next day (a sunday) a wonderful volunteer came and spent the day with us working with the Inca. She had thought that she would have to bring her back to the shelter but we wanted to try to make it work and with the volunteer's patience and ours and especially my husband's we have had a wonderful pet for the last four year and hope to have her as part of our family for many years to come.\r\nThis is customer service...any problem, any time they will be there for you and your animal.

Pros

good people

Cons

poor facilities

92. DAWS is a great shelter.

by: Keveronis

Great people and dogs. DAWS does an enormous amount of annual turnover. The facility is decrepit though. They need a new space.

Pros

Wide range of dogs available for adoption.

Cons

Facility is failing.

93. Great Place to Volunteer

by: LynnLucyDoris

Volunteering has made a difference in my life. I'm glad to say it's the very best part about retiring...more time for the animals!

Pros

Lots of caring and dedicated volunteers!

Cons

None

94. DAWS review

by: ILoveNitro

I used to work at DAWS and its a very good animal shelter. There very clean and caring towards the animals and staff. The work area was good everybody was friendly and helpful to each other and everybody has a good kind heart.

Pros

Good to animals, very clean, good staff and enviorment to work in

Cons

none

95. Great Shelter

by: lsignorini

A great shelter for animals in need of adoption. DAWS is staffed with so many caring people and have done a great job of garnering community support. A shelter deerving of support and donations for the service that they provide to the animals and the community.

Pros

Warm, welcoming staff

Cons

None

96. So many caring people in one place

by: mavolpe

The animals get all the love and care they need from a dedicated, caring staff and awesome volunteers. So they don't notice the facility needs a little love, because they are getting everything they need from these wonderful people. I've only been volunteering here for 6 months, but my Friday nights with the dogs are one of the highlights of my week.

Pros

Always put animals first

Cons

facility need some love

97. Loving Place!

by: llewell

I started volunteering at DAWS as a dog walker in Nov 07. What a loving place! There is an incredible amount of love for the animals housed there. Many times I've seen instances of great tenderness and gentleness with a new dog that has been especially scared and also with long timers needing that extra bit of reassurance. A lot goes into making sure the animals are going to loving homes. A truly wonderful place!

Pros

Very caring staff and volunteers

Cons

Facility in need of renovating

98. We're lucky to have DAWS in our community

by: KathCT

I used to volunteer a lot of time with DAWS, but now due to other responsibilities just help out with the occasional transport of dogs. I have visited a lot of shelters over the years, and never have I seen an animal group accomplish so much with so little. The facility is a renovated house, adapted to use as a shelter, yet manages to safely and cleanly house over 100 animals at a time. There is a small paid staff but volunteers run all the programs, perform all the adoptions, answer all the phone calls, and do all the fundraising. The in-house spay-neuter clinic is a HUGE asset, allowing DAWS the unique ability to help vast numbers of feral cats as well as neuter all puppies of any age before they get released for adoption. DAWS is a great place to visit for anyone looking to adopt due to the thorough medical work that is done pre-adoption as well as behavior evaluations to determine the best environment for the dog or cat.

Pros

Much attention given to the health and happiness of the animals, and finding them the right home

Cons

Facility, particularly dog kennels, are in dire need of renovation

99. DAWS for our friends with PAWS

by: tombenedetto

Great shelter run by people with hearts of gold !\nKeep up the good work DAWS, our little friends need you.

Pros

Great purpose, Great People

Cons

High animal to volunteer ratio.

100. Great place with a BIG HEART

by: bls2103

This small shelter depends on volunteers and donations. They have a big heart and the animals are well cared for. The dogs and cats there would make wonderful pets and a makeover would be well deserved and deserved.

Pros

Great staff and animals deserving of a new home

Cons

small shelter in need of a make over

101. A happy place

by: Tina123

We adopted a kitten a few years back to keep our 2 older ones company. We love her and her feisty personality and were very impressed with the staff at DAWS. Every year now when we get our AMEX reward check (and whenever else possible) we go shopping at Costco for supplies for the shelter. This is also the time we clean out old towels and blankets so the animals currently living there can sleep comfortably, until they find their forever homes. I really hope DAWS wins the grand prize but it will not stop us from still contributing whenever we can.

Pros

Everything

Cons

None

102. DAWS is great!

by: Tibvixie101

Our family has been volunteering and adopting animals from DAWS for many years. Their volunteers, and staff are very informative, they are great with the animals they house, giving them lots of love and attention, and they are always out and about raising awareness about rescueing and helping to save animals!

Pros

close to home, great volunteers

Cons

none

103. I Love Daws!

by: brentwolfe

Due to the lack of, or almost non-existant funding from the local governments, the volunteers, and generous donations from animal lovers, keep the walls up, dogs & cats fed. Thank you to all the volunteers and staff members that continue to support the local areas.

Pros

When the majority of your support comes from volunteers, you know the people enjoy what they do.

Cons

The facility is very dated and requires lots of attention

104. DAWS deserves a makeover!!!

by: Manja

This shelter is amazing. My husband and I have been volunteers at DAWS for the past 2 years and we both love it. We will be moving away from the area in a couple of months, and the thing that we will probably miss most is DAWS. The people at DAWS are wonderful, and the devotion to caring for the dogs is incredible. I have never seen such hard working volunteers. While the people (and dogs!!) are top notch, the facility could use a serious makeover.

Pros

excellent volunteers, great adoption policies, great dogs!

Cons

NONE!!!

105. Great shelter

by: Piglet666

My sister just adopted 2 cats from this shelter recently, and they helped me a few years back. There is ALWAYS somebody affiliated with this shelter willing to help when needed, and I couldn't think of a more worthy cause to donate to. DAWS will always be my first stop when looking for a new addition to my "family". Keep up the good work guys - I hope you make it to the top 20!!!

Pros

Always there to help

Cons

none

106. Great shelter volunteers, facilities could be better for dogs

by: innisfree

DAWS is committed to working with people who are responsible and want to adopt pets. Although I rescued my dogs from a high-kill shelter down south directly through petfinder a few years ago, DAWS is now getting into more of this type of work which I think is extremely important. I hope that they wint he makeover because the dog area could be so much better, and they could help even more dogs. Their network is amazing, and they get the cutest dogs from all over the country (and PR) now. Adopt a shelter dog - don't buy while shelter dogs die! (caveat- DAWS is no-kill but the other shelters in other parts of the country that they connect with may not be)

Pros

Great people, cat area is nice because they can be outside in enclosure

Cons

Dog area is primitive, not a home-like environment which I think is stressful over time

107. Dedicated and loving volunteer

by: lofrs

My daughter volunteers at the shelter and I see how much she truly cares for the animals. The staff/volunteers really love those animals but repairs are greatly needed. They need this makeover so they can help more animals find a loving home.

Pros

great volunteers that love there animals

Cons

need improvements and repairs, need this makeover

108. Great Experience

by: MarianMerr1

Its been years since I have been to the shelter but we have adopted from DAWs on the past and will again in the future.

Pros

Caring Shelter

Cons

None

109. Thank you DAWS!

by: momsname

Glad to help! The best shelter in Connecticut. We got our dog there last year and love him. The friendly folks at dogs helped us every step of the way. Keep up the good work!

Pros

They find great homes for cats and dogs

Cons

They need a makeover!

110. Highly Recommended!

by: altmo

My friend is a foster mom for DAWS kittens and she recommend DAWS when I was looking to adopt. The staff was very friendly and caring and you could tell that they loved the cats as if they were their own. I'm thinking of adding a second kitty and DAWS is the only place I would consider going!

Pros

They treat the animals as their own

Cons

None

111. Best Selection in the area

by: fishon

We adopted 3 of our cats from DAWS. The cat adoption counselors know their cats inside and out. They take pride in what they do, and their service does not end once the cat is adopted. They have even made house calls to help trim nails, medicate, assistance with getting them in a carrier for a vet visit. The list goes on and on.\r\nThey are truly dedicated!

Pros

Wonderful Place to get your next animal

Cons

None

112. DAWS Is #1

by: flash58

The best volunteers going!!!\r\nThey volunteer endless hours helping find the perfect home, and taking care of them until they do.\r\n

Pros

They know their animals, work hard at finding the best home

Cons

Shelter in need of repair

113. D.A.W.S. rocks

by: Nikki474

I'm fortunate enough to have seen some top notch animal shelters before, but D.A.W.S. is at the top of the list. I've never met a more caring and devoted staff. These folks are dedicated to keeping the animals healthy, happy, and are vigilant about making sure they find loving homes. Kudos D.A.W.S.! (Chris B. is an outstanding volunteer; she gives her whole heart to these furbabies. Love ya Chris!)

Pros

Great staff, great place

Cons

none

114. DAWS is wonderful!

by: oxywyrm

Six years ago when I wanted to adopt a kitten I was told that DAWS was the place to go. I wasn't disappointed! The staff was friendly and helpful and we got a great kitten. I have friends who volunteer at DAWS and act as foster homes and I always love hearing the success stories of the cats that find loving homes. Highly recommended!

Pros

great staff, animalls are well loved and cared for!

Cons

Needs more space for more animals!

115. Great shelter!

by: brescim

I haven't visited the DAWS shelter for years but know of a co-worker that works there and is very passionate about their work. I did adopt a kitten from DAWS about 15 years ago and the staff was very friendly, professional and caring.

Pros

Great shelter

Cons

none

116. DAWS is a great place

by: mtldog

We just adopted a puppy from DAWS. The staff was incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We couldn't be happier with the new addition to our family. We are so thankful that DAWS does what it does.

Pros

Great staff

Cons

none

117. DAWS deserves a makeover!

by: mochacap

Great shelter that really cares for the animals while they are waiting for their new homes. Unlike many shelters that I've seen that traumatize the pets, DAWS spends time giving the pets attention and training to help thembe better prepared tor their new homes. Well deserving of a makeover!!

Pros

Really care for the animals!

Cons

Kind of hard to find

118. One passionate volunteer!!!

by: DTM

I must admit up front that I do not know much about DAWS. I have never been there and I only know one volunteer, Jodie S. But I felt compelled to write a review as a result of the passion that Jodie demonstrates for this shelter and the people and animals which comprise it. It is impressive to see how much Jodie and the other employees and volunteers dedicate their time and energy to helping these pets. I only know of this by speaking to Jodie and reading the other reviews on this site. I hope that my participation helps get DAWS the makeover that they are striving for.

Pros

Helping needy pets

Cons

N/A

119. They go the extra mile!

by: mocat4

As both an adopter and a volunteer I've had the chance to see the wonderful people at DAWS in action from both sides of the adoption process. The animals are all well loved and cared for, and the best part about being a volunteer is watching the kitties I've come to know and love find warm and welcome homes!

Pros

Warm, caring, friendly people. Animals are well cared for.

Cons

Not enough space to house all the animals that need care.

120. Great animal rescue

by: ztT4MP79564914

Great facility and caring staff. If you need a pup or kitten or dog or cat adopt here! These kids are in need of permanent homes. We owe that much! Can't say enough great things about this facility!\n\nKevin M.\nRedding, CT

Pros

Great staff, clean, animals lovingly taken care of!

Cons

NONE!

121. Great place

by: cefoster78

We just adopted a puppy from this shelter. They were helpful and kind. It was a very pleasant experience and she is a geat addition to our family.

Pros

The friendly staff is very helpful.

Cons

none

122. Tail Waggers

by: drski23

Great place to bring your dog for a bath (self service) and get your pet groomed. Staff is helpful.

Pros

Always can get the dog in for a bath!

Cons

Hours

123. Exceptional Shelter

by: denisequaka

Great place for animals to stay while waiting for their forever home. Each and every one gets individual attention from volunteers.

Pros

nice large cages for cats, fenced in dog yards

Cons

Can't think of any

124. Great place!

by: kthamm

What a nice place with a great bunch of volunteers!

Pros

Great staff!

Cons

none

125. Wonderful Volunteer

by: 4dogmom

This organization is staffed by the best volunteers. The selection of cats and dogs is wonderful.

Pros

great volunteers

Cons

need a new shelter

126. daws

by: winkman

what a special place! caring staff and volunteers who take wonderful care of the dogs and cats while they are in a transition phase of their life!!

Pros

wonderful staff and volunteers

Cons

need a larger shelter

127. Dedicated Volunteers

by: NASCARTONE

I know first hand how dedicated the volunteers are to the animals in their care.

Pros

great organization

Cons

run down shelter

128. DAWS is Dandy!

by: mdempsey19

It's amazing how much the shelter accomplishes with primarily volunteers. It's a real testament to the heart and soul of the people who help out there. It really is all about the animals with them.

Pros

They take great care of all the animals there.

Cons

They could use more space.

129. A great place to get a dog!

by: DempBoys

I highly recommend this shelter when you are looking for a new pet. The dogs are well behaved, it shows that the volunteers spend as much time as they can getting them socialized. Each day you see the volunteers walking or playing with the dogs in the yard. It's nice to see how much they care for them.

Pros

Friendly, knowledgeable, caring

Cons

Parking lot floods during heavy rains

130. Danbury Animal Welfare Society is a Wonderful Place

by: zeny1999

i got my dog from DAWS many years ago. She is now my best friend. The staff was so nice, so caring, and so helpful. They really make sure that the dog finds the right home.

Pros

Knowledgeable caring volunteers

Cons

Wish they had daytime hours.

131. DAWS Deserves the Best

by: jimdempsey99

My brother volunteers at the shelter so I often hear what great work they do. I love the Save-a-Sato program they support. I appreciate that they are a no kill shelter.

Pros

They match the right dog with the right family.

Cons

Need more space.

132. A Loving Place for Companion Animals While They Wait

by: lindah32b

I've been a volunteer at DAWS for over 3 years and cannot speak highly enough of the dedicated volunteers who make a loving and safe home with good medical care for dogs and cats who would otherwise be homeless. Thanks to DAWS, countless companion animals have been placed in loving homes for over 30 years.

Pros

Cons

Need more space!

133. DAWS

by: fostermom06

Daws is an excellent shelter. They care a lot about their animals. They are very good at finding future owners for them. They could always use more room to separate categories of animals and to provide places for prospective owners to view and interact with potential pets privately.

Pros

Very Nice Shelter

Cons

need more private areas for pet-owner viewing/interacting

134. Wonderful Place

by: colleentrig

DAWS is a wonderful organization that does an amazing job taking care of pets and finding them homes. Their volunteers are the best and they put on great events to raise money for the animals. I already have a house full of dogs but when I'm looking for my next companion I will defininitely adopt from DAWS.

Pros

Excellent Volunteer Staff

Cons

none

135. A blessing to the animals

by: cyr1

I personally think that DAWS is a blessing! After losing my best friend Tyra in October of 2006 I was devastated. I turned to DAWS to help heal my heart by offering to run a fundraiser to benefit the shelter. I felt this would benefit both of us. After helping with the fundraiser, I stayed in touch with Melissa and constantly checked the website. We were introduced to Gracie in March of 2007. Thanks to DAWS we have found a great pup and a new best friend for our golden, Max. She was rescued by DAWS from a shelter in Tennessee and brought here. They took great care of her while she was with them. She is just one example of the many animals that DAWS saves and finds the perfect forever family for!

Pros

The staff of volunteers are a great bunch of people who truely care for the well being of the animals brought in.

Cons

They need more room for the animals to match the room in their hearts for these pets!

136. DAWS is Great!!!

by: bretback

My wife volunteers here and they do a terrific job with the dogs who for the most part were in high kill shelters. Now they are safe in a No kill shelter and find great homes. Our dog Scarlett came from Daws.

Pros

Volunteers who love and care for Animals in need

Cons

Needs cash badly

137. Annie and I are greatful!

by: alisoncole22

I got my dog Annie from DAWS in May of 2007 and I've been volunteering there ever since. The people are great... so friendly and helpful. It's so great to see such a quick turn-around. Everyone is so dedicated to finding these animals homes that the pets all go so quickly! And they don't give up on the dogs that are hard to place... Annie is proof of that. After I got her and saw what good care they took of her while she was there, I knew I had to help out and keep other dogs happy until they find their forever homes. I want to thank all the people who made Annie a happy dog before she became my dog!

Pros

hard working people who care about the future of the animals

Cons

such a small facility

138. DAWS has Heart

by: GertieD

My son is a volunteer at DAWS so I hear first hand what a great organization they are. It amazes me to hear some of the stories - how they treat the dogs with special medical needs no matter what the cost; that they ensure that the dog finds the right home (and will not adopt a dog out if it is not a right fit for the dog!). It's a wonderful organization that deserves additional space and new facilities to continue the great work for many years to come.\r\n

Pros

Caring, Honest, Loving, Respectful

Cons

They need more space.

139. Excellent, honest facility

by: DeboraFitzgerald

After an impressive screening, that included an actual check into my references and a meeting with the dog that Rex would spend lots of time with, I adopted the best dog from DAWS. All of the people involved were knowledgeable and courteous. All genuinely wanted Rex to be placed not quickly, but appropriately. He is a high energy dog who had seen his share of hardship and DAWS saw to it that he got his forever home with someone who would genuinely meet his needs. He has brought tremendous joy to my home and is a social butterfly about the neighborhood. DAWS is a worthy organization.

Pros

Excellent, knowledgeable, compassionate staff; great program

Cons

needs more money for improvements

140. DAWS

by: ztT4MP30996288

DAWS has had a wonderful group of volunteers over the years. They assisted us with gaining control of a horrible feral cat colony in Danbury. We couldn't have done it without them.

Pros

large dedicated volunteer staff

Cons

in the past have been too strict in their criteria for adopting out cats but with new leadership, the situation has greatly improved

141. Exemplary Adoption Process

by: chrisben

Before purchasing a puppy, kitten, cat or dog from a breeder or storefront, please consider adopting from Danbury Animal Welfare Society. DAWS has perfected the adoption process and makes every attempt to match a person or family with their new companion.\r\n\r\nThe application process ensures that animals find the best, safe home and adopters have accurate expectations on the caring and needs of a their new family member. The streamline application process is directly related to the very low number of animal returns to DAWS.\r\n\r\nVisit DAWS at www.daws.org to see who is up for adoption now!\r\n

Pros

Volunteers are the lifeblood of this organization and proud of it!

Cons

In need of funds to update facility

142. I like how DAWS runs its organization and genuinely cares for its dogs.

by: LindaStones

I like how DAWS runs its organization and genuinely cares for its dogs. I like how they focus on proper, healthy handling and training techniques to help the dogs learn healthy behaviors and feel secure, and, when necessary, break out of their shells. I like how they encourage their volunteers to learn how to properly handle and train the dogs. I like how they make sure that each dog is placed in a good home. (I've been a volunteer with DAWS now for almost a year and, I love seeing the dedication that the volunteers have for the organization and the dogs. Even though the facility is old and a bit depressing, the volunteers and staff keep the kennels and rooms very clean.

Pros

The dedication of the volunteers

Cons

The condition of the facility

143. Outstanding Organization!

by: mbarber8

Since I cannot have a cat where I'm currently living, I started volunteering at DAWS as a way to get my "cat fix" and help out at the same time. I'm so glad I did. I've been very impressed with how well the shelter is run. The animals receive top-notch care and lots of attention, love, and play time, of course! Everything is very organized and well-thought out, always keeping the animals' welfare as the number one priority. There are even clipboards to keep track of cat/volunteer interactions to ensure that no kitty gets left out! Adoption counselors know the animals well and work hard to make sure they go to well-matched homes. Whether you'd like to volunteer or adopt a new friend, I'd highly recommend DAWS for a wonderful experience!

Pros

caring volunteers

Cons

need more funds, upgrades, and volunteers

144. Amazing organization

by: twosibes

DAWS is operated by a group of incredibly dedicated volunteers who work so hard to find wonderful forever homes for all the animals. I have been volunteering for a few years and I am amazed at everything this group is able to do. Everyone works so hard to give these dogs and cats a second chance, ensuring they are given lots of love and care while at the shelter, and helping them find true happiness with adopters. Amazing!

Pros

Caring, dedicated volunteers

Cons

Only needs a makeover!!!

145. The really care

by: wlp007

These folks have the best interests of the cats and dogs at heart. They really make a big difference in the lives of so many animals (and the lucky people who adopt them!) We got our 5 kitties here and appreciated the care and support the volunteers gave us.

Pros

Caring folks

Cons

needs better facility

146. Dedicated Volunteers!

by: kmccue13

As a former volunteer of DAWS, I can say that I have never seen a more dedicated group of people all working together for the welfare of animals. DAWS really deserves the zootoo.com makeover and I hope we can get you to the #1 spot in the next 25 days!

Pros

Knowledgeable, energetic staff/volunteers

Cons

Needs a $1 million dollar makover from Zootoo.com to be perfect!

147. T. Do DAWS Review

by: thaison

I've volunteered at DAWS for just over a year and it's one of the best shelters I've ever been part of. After my first dog passed away, they helped through the process of finding a new dog and making sure that I was ready to adopt a new dog. Their first priority is the well-being of the animal which is the way it should be. There's nothing worse than letting a dog or cat be adopted by anyone only to be neglected or abused later on.

Pros

Great people.

Cons

The shelter is too small and in need of repairs.

148. I found my best friend at DAWS!

by: TimDemp30

DAWS participates in the wonderful Save-a-Sato program. Satos come all the way from Puerto Rico to escape some very poor living conditions. At DAWS they are cared for by dedicated volunteers who help them get adopted into their forever homes. I adopted my Sato Sydney over four years ago and she is absolutely wonderful!\n

Pros

Caring, dedicated, sincere, friendly

Cons

None

149. Wonderful shelter

by: smproia

The volunteers and shelter staff at DAWS are committed to improving the lives of the animals in their care.

Pros

caring staff and volunteers

Cons

none

150. DAWS is the best!

by: Vmm86

I am greatful to DAWS for being a safe-haven for homeless or abandoned pets. They are dedicated to the animals there and are an asset to the community. It would be an unbelievable gift for this worthy shelter to receive a make-over.

Pros

Caring, kind shelter for homeless animals

Cons

none

151. Best Place!

by: alyssab21

I am now a volunteer at DAWS six months after adopting my new best friend, Izzy! Izzy is a Border Collie mix who has stolen my heart! Danbury Animal Welfare helped me every step of the way, from choosing the right to helping Izzy adjust to a new environment. I would recommend DAWS to anyone seriously considering adopting a pet!

Pros

Great Volunteers!

Cons

Very far from my home in New York!

152. wonderful place

by: scs061107

DAWS it a great place . The staff and volunteers are great they are so frendly they all care so much about the cats and dogs if I was to get another pet I would go there !!!!!!!!

Pros

they take great care of their anamals

Cons

none

153. Excellent

by: lisamoliva

I have no hesitations on using the Danbury Animal Welfare Society.

Pros

Very professional

Cons

none

154. The BEST of the BEST

by: cosmothebrave

A note: REMEMBER - rate DAWS a 5 if you think DAWS is great - some are not giving any rating which is the same as giving DAWS a number 1..... Volunteering and being part of such a humane and dedicated organization as DAWS is a GREAT experience. Everyone wants the absolute best for each cat and dog and it really shows. I'm so proud of my shelter!!!!!

Pros

Loving and caring volunteers all the way providing the BEST service to our animals and our adopters alike!

Cons

Absolutely nothing

155. Where dogs find homes!

by: KathyZurolo

DAWS has a team of volunteers and staff that transport dogs, give them medical care, train and socialize them and find them the perfect home! Now all the dogs need coming though the doors is a top-notch facility for their utmost comfort during their temporary stay.

Pros

Caring and dedicated volunteers and staff

Cons

In need of a makeover!

156. The Wonderful DAWS

by: Sixtus7

Absolutely phenomenal shelter. Caring, respectful, knowledgeable... all the things you'd find in a first class shelter. The people are great, and the animals are well taken care of... what more can you ask?

Pros

Fantastic All Around

Cons

No Cons

157. What a Wonderful Place

by: CoopyDoop

I have had many dealings with the animal shelter and they have always be very professional. The animals are well taken care of and look good.

Pros

The place is very clean and the staff do a great job.

Cons

I'm not crazy about its location.

158. They really care

by: jbcat

I volunteer at this shelter and have the highest respect for the folks in charge. The animals get the medical care they need and are well loved til good homes are found. It would be a wonderful thing for the shelter to get a much-needed facelift!

Pros

Animals are treated with love and respect

Cons

needs a face lift

159. Incredible dedication, care, and attention to adoption detail

by: Meezie

I've been involved with this organization since 2003 and can't think of a better place to dedicate my volunteer hours. There are always challenges, especially since we're all volunteers, but we always manage through them because we know we're all after the same thing - to rescue animals and place them in loving homes and to end animal overpopulation in our area.\n\nOur shelter is literally falling apart, so I hope the zootoo team takes a long, hard look at us. Keep getting those points in, team!!

Pros

Cons

Volunteer-run so open house hours are limited. Cramped quarters at the shelter and little space for people/animal interaction

160. Simply the Best..

by: lawguy

This is a dedicated volunteer led shelter that is in the forefront of saving and finding forever homes for the hundreds of neglected animals in their care. They are tireless, loyal & are sourred by doing the right thing by their charges. They fully vett all prospective adopters & work their magic to make every adoption a positive and seamless experience. They are simply the best!

Pros

Dedicated volunteer army helping neglected animals

Cons

An old & worn out building

161. I Love Helping DAWS

by: DougElvis

This is a wonderful organization that my wife got me involved with. The volunteers are really dedicated, people gift of time is incredible and I know the feeling of being a "shelter widower" - but it is worth the it when you see all the good that comes out of the hard work. Please help them.

Pros

Great Organization w/ great Mission

Cons

Needs more funding

162. Rescuing Animals Is Great!

by: Dogrescuer

I have been volunteering at DAWS since 2001. It is a wonderful shelter with caring volunteers and staff. Each year we find forever homes for over 500 animals! It is wonderful for the animals and everyone involved! DAWS is the Best!

Pros

wonderful army of volunteers and staff

Cons

we need a brand new facility so we can rescue more animals

163. Daws

by: cosmo102

We adopted our cats from DAWS and have great respect for the volunteers there. It's a good half-way house for animals while they wait for their forever homes.

Pros

caring environment

Cons

needs a facelift

164. DAWS

by: ketchie

We adopted from DAWS then started volunteering. The animals are treated with love and respect; great care is taken to place them in loving homes. Here's hoping for winning a makeover!

Pros

Animals get the best care

Cons

needs a makeover!

165. Proud Adopter and Volunteer

by: barrod221

I am happy to say that I adopted two awesome dogs from DAWS. I am a proud volunteer with this organization for the past 6 years. We have two great wishes: that all of our dogs and cats find loving forever homes and that we can build a new shelter.

Pros

Great matching of owners and animals

Cons

We need a new shelter!

166. Helpful, caring staff

by: staclinusa

If you're looking for a furry friend and you're within driving distance of Danbury, DAWS should be your first stop. Not only do they have dogs and cats of all shapes, sizes, colors, etc, but each animal gets to interact with a person every day. Dogs that need a little more work before they're "family ready" work with a trainer regularly. They will make sure that the pet you adopt is the best one for your family.

Pros

1-on-1 attention given to all animals, dedicated volunteers

Cons

small space

167. A true gem

by: monkymom

Last year I adopted a cat from DAWS. Her name is Cassie and she's a beautiful tuxedo cat. All of the volunteers at the shelter were so friendly and helpful. They had such patience. I visited the shelter many times when making the choice of a new pet to adopt. The volunteers, especially Jenny, were so helpful and answered my many questions. I still send pics to Jenny so that she can share them with Cassie's foster mom so that she can see how well she is doing! I still visit the DAWS site on a regular basis and I get so excited to see when one of the animals I met gets adopted! Thank you DAWS.

Pros

wonderful volunteers

Cons

more space needed

168. DAWS

by: blackiesdad

I'm impressed with the way that DAWS ensures that their animals go to responsible and caring families.

Pros

Great staff that goes the "extra mile" to care for animals.

Cons

Facilities could definitely use some "updating."

169. A Great Place

by: JenLucinda

I have been a volunteer since 2005 while I attended college. I was looking for somewhere to volunteer-a place that was close to school and had hours that were able to work with classes. While looking, I found DAWS and the first aspect of the shelter that caught my attention was the fact that DAWS was a no-kill shelter. I love animals of all kinds, but I do love cats the most, and being able to help socialize cats that were abused or strays is wonderful. I even used to occasionally miss a night class to help out. Now that I graduated college, its a decent drive to the shelter, but one I happily make just about every week.\r\nEveryone at DAWS are all about cats and dogs- the health and happiness of the animals comes first. The volunteers genuinely care for animals and make sure that they will get the best possible forever home. :o)

Pros

Cons

A slightly long drive from where I live, but 100% worth it.

170. DAWAS rescue shelter

by: dunnek

The volunteers who run the Danbury Animal Welfare Society rescue organization are dedicated, knowledgeable people who do the best they can each day, week and month to help homeless cats and dogs. They strive to find the best match between human and animal. Each dog and cat that passes through the door is special and touches lives. \r\n\r\nQuote: "You can't change the world by adopting an animal, but you change that animal's life forever"\r\n-Unknown

Pros

volunteers are passionate about animal rescue; average 50 cat/dog adoptions per month

Cons

the need to help homeless animals never ends!

171. A shelter of caring people who truly love there animals

by: salvatj

Since working at this shelter, I am amazed at how our volunteers genuinely care about all our animals. The time and love they give is amazing and I am proud to be a part of it and make a difference with these people and help find these animals loving forever homes!

Pros

Loving, caring and generous volunteers and knowledgable staff

Cons

Small shelter, limited room

172. DAWS is devotion!

by: pamelasb3

DAWS does it right -- the welfare of the animal comes first....their needs are met, then exceeded until they get their forever home. \r\n\r\nThere is a tremendous effort from the volunteers at DAWS; a sense of pride that is unwavering and the collective teamwork on behalf of the animals in their care is more than impressive.

Pros

Every aspect is well thought out and executed with kindness & care

Cons

Not enough money funds to expand (just yet)

173. SAFE ANIMALS

by: joni525

I AM A VOLUNTEER WITH CATS. WE KEEP OUR CAGES AND ALL THE AREAS AS CLEAN AS CAN BE. WE SHOW AND GIVE THEM ALL LOVE, EVEN THOSE SHY ONES THAT HIDE. WE ARE A NON DESTROY.\r\nTHE DOGS ARE KEPT CLEAN AND WARM. EVERY INDIVIDUAL THAT VOLUNTEERS GIVES FROM THEIR HEART. \r\n\r\nOUR BABIES DESERVE MORE ROOM TO BE TREATED JUST LIKE OUR OWN. THANK YOU

Pros

THE CONCERN AND CARE OF OUR ANIMALS IS #1

Cons

WE NEED MORE ROOM FOR THE OVER ABUNDANCE OF CREATURES THAT NEED A HOME

174. DAWS

by: ketcher

We adopted all of our cats from DAWS; the staff are very knowlegable and compassionate, willing to go that extra mile to make sure all of their animals are placed in loving, forever homes.

Pros

Staffed by very helpful, knowledgable, compassionate volunteers

Cons

None

175. Responsible Organization

by: lsignore

My daughter is a volunteer with this organization and the time and devotion of the team of volunteers is incredible. Kudos to all.

Pros

Do what they say

Cons

Not getting support from Danbury

176. Find your best friend here at DAWS

by: JaneHiller

I've been volunteering at DAWS since 2002 and wish for a bright and prosperous future for the shelter. The volunteers are extremely dedicated and really put their heart and soul into caring for and finding forever homes for each animal that passes through our doors.

Pros

dedicated group of volunteers

Cons

more funds and volunteers needed

177. Would Use this Organization

by: mrsmcd

Unfortunately I did not get my present dog from DAWS but would definitely consider them for my next canine family member. I always support their fund drives.

Pros

Great Organization - Great volunteers

Cons

None that I have found

178. So Glad to Help

by: jaymeedee

This is a wonderful shelter - they are like family and the volunteers are all so helpful and honestly love the animals

Pros

So helpful and wonderful volunteers

Cons

Needs repairs and better advertising

[{"id":"24077","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Excellent Service ","username":"Aleistiana","rating":"5","pros":"Wonderful Staff ","cons":"Needs help with donations ","description":"DAWS is absolutely a wonderful shelter. The staff at DAWS are very patient, respectful, caring, kind, loving staff and the volunteers are truly remarkable. I give them alot of credit. God bless all the staff including the volunteers, and all the animals. Keep up the excellent work. ","date_added":"1281582483","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24076","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Fantastic Shelter","username":"libby2009","rating":"5","pros":"Fantastic pets,staff and website","cons":"none","description":"I adopted a cat from the shelter and I love her so much. When I got the cat home she adjusted immediately because at the shelter the staff there gave her lots of attention and love. Everyone at the shelter is very helpful and can answer any question that might arise about any pet up for adoption. My experience with this shelter was great and I would recommend them to anyone who is interested in adopting a pet. I especially liked their website which was updated with pictures and a little biography about each pet up for adoption I found this very helpful. Even after adopting a pet the staff is very accessible by email for any questions which might arise after the pet comes home. The pets at this shelter get plenty of attention and lots of love. Thanks for my new best friend!\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","date_added":"1237374529","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24075","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is great!!!","username":"LisaMariakakis","rating":"5","pros":"Great volunteers!","cons":"Nothing!","description":"I've only been a volunteer at DAWS since May, but in that short period of time, I am proud to volunteer with the other terrific people that spend their time helping in any way possible! DAWS is an amazing organization!!","date_added":"1226088018","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24074","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Not the best","username":"puppiesloveme","rating":"1","pros":"not sure","cons":"They don't anwser there phones","description":"They don't take in dogs from their own area","date_added":"1225837556","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24073","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"Kelsington","rating":"3","pros":"Good selection of dogs","cons":"Not a fan of the facility","description":"I have adopted two dogs from this shelter that I love very much. However, the facility wasn't very clean and the staff was not very friendly. \\r\\nThey do though keep their dogs until they can be placed, even if it is a very long time. Two dogs that sat at their shelter that I remember being a pit \"Blaze\" and a GSD \"Kano\". ","date_added":"1224546791","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24072","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"good and caring staff","username":"alkirner","rating":"5","pros":"clean shelter with caring volunteers","cons":"none","description":"a shelter that has provided a good service by helping dogs and cats get adopted","date_added":"1208068079","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24071","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Not very nice","username":"ztT4MP29305691","rating":"1","pros":"none","cons":"don't adopt the animals out!","description":"The place is messy and they are not helpful. If you have more than 1 child they won't give you an animal. They do not have the animals best interests in mind.","date_added":"1207943219","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24070","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A godsend","username":"Tinydancer","rating":"5","pros":"These people really care about animals","cons":"The location is a bit out of the way","description":"I adopted my chihuahua mix from DAWS last year. Aside from the fact that he is the SWEETEST dog, I can't say enough things about my positive adoption experience through DAWS. The staff is caring and responsive. They are clearly devoted to the animals and committed to finding them good homes.","date_added":"1207884936","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24069","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Against DAWS as finalist in makeover contest.","username":"ztT4MP83552863","rating":"1","pros":"DAWS takes care of dogs & finds them homes.","cons":"My daughter had a very negative experiencewith this shelter.","description":"My daughter & her 2 children, ages4 & 8 at the time, visited DAWS several times to visit a dog. The staff did not want a dog going to a home with 2 children, and my daughter had to return often to prove to the staff that the children were good with the dog. The day we went to pick up the dog, the workers were rude, made us wait & wait several hours, served others who came after us, and did not answer our questions. My daughter was a very nervous that these workers would reject her family, based wholly on the manner in which we were treated. I heard one worker ask another about hearing loss. When I asked if they were talking about our chosen dog, they denied it. They \"assured\" us the dog had been \"thoroughly\" checked by their vet. \"If he had a hearing problem, the vet would have picked that up\". We finally left with our dog, hours later. After having the dog home for several days, we all decided that he was stone deaf. He did not respond to even the loudest noise. He did not even detect vibrations. Needless to say, the family had grown attached to this dog. It does not take long. My daughter called DAWS to tell them, to ask why they had lied, and to ask for advice. No one wanted to talk with her about the dog, saying we must be mistaken. This dog is a member of the family still, but all normal communication is out. Not even a \"Good dog\" can be said. So, we do not recommend DAWS receive $1 MILLION from you. A lesser amount would be fine.","date_added":"1207788892","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24068","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"my daughter's involvement","username":"ztT4MP87124094","rating":"5","pros":"worth the travel","cons":"far from our little town","description":"we are grateful that such a place exists & are happy to donate to make sure it is still around for all the strays in the area","date_added":"1207775753","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24067","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"My Salvation","username":"vkichler","rating":"5","pros":"They really love animals","cons":"They need more room","description":"I didn't realize that I was depressed after my only child went off to college. As a single working mother I would come home from work, maybe fix some supper, maybe not and head up to my room to the TV and the internet until the next day. \\r\\nI have lived literally around the corner from DAWS for a decade, but until a gorgeous sunny Sunday this last October I didn't realize how lonely I was. I took a drive and saw lots of dogs being walked up and down the road and groups of people with dogs in front of the building.\\r\\nI decided right then that I would just go in and look. After flipping through the pages of their catalog of dogs needing homes, I made the decision that a dog would give me the companionship I needed, and I feel in love with the rat terrier in the book. I filled out an application, and one of the volunteers explained everything, and I mean everything. I know they check references, because my friend told me they asked whether I would be a good pet owner.\\r\\nThey also let me visit my guy every evening so we could bond before I took him home that Friday evening. (When they called me Tuesday evening to say my application was accepted I was so happy; it was like winning the lottery!)\\r\\nEveryone at DAWS has been wonderful. Their place is a place of love; the animals deserve a new shelter since they have experienced traumatic events in their blameless lives.\\r\\n","date_added":"1207673548","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24066","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"We Love all of the people at DAWS!","username":"ginnymck","rating":"5","pros":"Friendly, caring and understanding","cons":"small reception area","description":"We adopted a wonderful dog named Gordon 3 weeks ago from DAWS. He is a gentle, sweet dog with a wonderful disposition. When we picked him up, we were told he was having some problems with a nervous stomach. We were told to call if it got worse, which it did. Not only was Gordon picked up at our home, he was taken to the Vet and given medical attention. He went back to DAWS so he could get better. We hope to bring him home in the next few days. We are very thankful to Jean, Lynn and the many other volunteers who gave us daily updates on his condition and were most accomodating on our many visits. \\r\\n\\r\\nThank you\\r\\nThe McKinstry family","date_added":"1207538006","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24065","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Enthusiastic Volunteers where the animals come first","username":"CindyLou2090","rating":"5","pros":"Animals come first and Potential Pet Parents are checked out carefully","cons":"None","description":"My Dad adopted a wonderful Border Collie Mix - Bogey, from DAWS and they have been inseparable ever since - Bogey keeps him very active","date_added":"1207465952","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24064","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Wonderful collaborators","username":"angelajones","rating":"5","pros":"works with shelters in need","cons":"none I can think of","description":"Although I have never visited DAWS, I have to thank your organization for helping so many pets here in Kentucky. I know DAWS works with my local shelter (the Bowling Green-Warren County Humane Society) to rescue as many dogs as possible. In fact, I believe your group contributed to the HW treatment for a senior dog I fostered for and then adopted from my humane society. Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do!","date_added":"1207015127","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24063","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Thank you, DAWS","username":"mallyptz","rating":"5","pros":"fantastic staff, very helpful","cons":"none -- honestly!","description":"I adopted from DAWS and would do it again! They were very helpful and patient -- kind to all of the animals and concerned for their proper placement. Good luck, DAWS!","date_added":"1207008636","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24062","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Hard Working Volunteers","username":"Ronnie53","rating":"5","pros":"Non-Profit & No Kill","cons":"Improvements & Repairs needed to Building","description":"This shelter has one of the largest selections of cats and dogs in the area. The volunteers who showed the animals were knowledgeable and very helpful.\\r\\n\\r\\nThey could use more space to show & house their animals. Repairs are also needed to their building. ","date_added":"1206987960","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24061","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"LOVE THIS PLACE","username":"YMZ","rating":"5","pros":"They truly love their animals","cons":"NONE","description":"THis place is awesome. They truly care about all of their animals and research and follow up on the animals they place to be sure they are in loving, caring homes. This place is deserving of all praise.","date_added":"1206971348","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24060","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A great shelter","username":"baileydogs","rating":"5","pros":"Caring staff","cons":"no cons","description":"The people who run this shelter really care for these animals. They go above and beyond what they have to do to help the cats and dogs at the shelter find homes, as well as helping cats and dogs nationwide that are in high kill shelters.\\r\\nKudos to DAWS.","date_added":"1206914856","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24059","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Thank you, DAWS, for saving so many cats and dogs","username":"JABanimallover","rating":"5","pros":"Dedicated volunteers;has saved many animals","cons":"Needs better facilities","description":"DAWS should be commended for rescuing a large number of cats and dogs. Their in-house training program for dogs has helped a large number of dogs become adoptable pets.\\r\\n\\r\\nDAWS really needs better facilities. On the dog side of the facility, they have only a tiny indoor room where dogs can get a break from their cages and be in a \"real world\" setting. This also is the office and where dog-human introductions that take place indoors happen (other than a utility room with washing machines, etc.). Every time it rains, a huge puddle forms in the driveway and lasts for days. This eliminates a large portion of the outdoor space used to walk and exercise the dogs. These are but two of the many needs this shelter has. ","date_added":"1206913214","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24058","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"We LOVE You!","username":"deanawehr","rating":"5","pros":"Amazing Rescue","cons":"wish they were closer","description":"DAWS has helped our shelter for 6+ years and has rescued a lot of animals from our shelter that would have otherwise been euthanized for room. They always send us updates when animals they pull from us get adopted and always taken whenever they can, they are easy to work w\/ and do a great job @ finding their animals wonderful homes! They are an excellent rescue and many of our dogs would die w\/out their help! They just took several from us this Saturday!","date_added":"1206910902","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24057","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"I owe DAWS for giving me my pal!","username":"Lesmar123","rating":"5","pros":"Very caring, knowledgeable staff.","cons":"none","description":"I was very lucky to adopt my orange tabby Sinbad from Daws one year ago. He is the sweetest, most affectionate cat and I can't imagine my life without him. ","date_added":"1206904941","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24056","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"BEST SHELTER ","username":"barbysanlu","rating":"4","pros":"GREAT STAFF - ","cons":"NONE","description":"I HAVE ADOPTED MY 2 PETS FROM DAWS. I COULDN'T HAVE FOUND A MORE PERFECT DOG FOR MY FAMILY!! THE STAFF WAS TERRIFIC AT KNOWING WHICH ANIMAL WOULD BE THE BEST FOR MY FAMILY. I CAN'T SAY ENOUGH GOOD THINGS ABOUT DAWS. UNFORTUNATLEY ONE OF THE CATS I ADOPTED HAD TO BE RETURNED TO DAWS BECAUSE OF HIS DIFFICULTY ADJUSTING TO THE DOG (WE HAD THE DOG 1ST) BUT I KNEW THEY WOULD FIND HIM ANOTHER GREAT HOME.\\r\\nTHE ANIMALS THAT COME FROM A SHELTER JUST SEEM TO BE FOREVER GREATFUL OF THEIR NEW HOMES. ","date_added":"1206804374","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24055","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"dedicated & friendly staff","username":"fsems08","rating":"5","pros":"dedicated group of people","cons":"none","description":"Our shelter has worked with DAWS for several years now, and we have been very impressed with them, they are a great group of people to work with, and work very hard to find great homes for all of their animals.. \\r\\n\\r\\nIt is so nice to see them in the top 20 on Zoo Too, it is great to know that they have such support from their community!","date_added":"1206761515","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24054","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"An excellent organization!","username":"IResQK9sNKy","rating":"5","pros":"caring people working for a great cause","cons":"none found","description":"Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS) is a great organization full of very caring people. Our shelter has worked with them for several years now and they've saved many a life from our shelter. We transport dogs up north on a regular basis and they've pulled so many animals from us ... they find them loving, caring homes and we're so grateful for all they've done.","date_added":"1206730663","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24053","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Dedicated volunteers","username":"bammcd","rating":"5","pros":"Hardworking and dedicated volunteers ","cons":"They need a better facility.","description":"You can't top the volunteers at DAWS. The give so much attention and love to the animals. Their knowledge of each pet's personality and needs is crucial in making a successful match into a new home. I think they're all great people to give of their time and energy in this way!!","date_added":"1206727777","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24052","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"No Kill Shelter","username":"lisadon","rating":"5","pros":"No Kill & Volunteer Run","cons":"Shelter bldg is falling apart","description":"There are not many shelters around that are volunteer run, non-profit and no kill. How DAWS has done this for over 30 Year's is amazing.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe hope you win the makeover!!! \\r\\n","date_added":"1206718490","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24051","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Fabulous","username":"pogobuddy","rating":"5","pros":"Wonderful place to adopt!","cons":"none","description":"This is a wonderful no-kill shelter that makes every attempt to place animals in the perfect homes!","date_added":"1206661709","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24050","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A loving environment for animals","username":"mlivings","rating":"5","pros":"Caring people working together to help animals.","cons":"The building could use updating and a better layout.","description":"I have been a volunteer at this shelter for 6 months now. When I first saw the shelter I was amazed at the space and freedom the cats had to roam around. They even have a small outdoor area to play in. It struck me as a place where cats could feel at home while they wait to find their forever home. It is wonderful to hear all the stories from happy adopters and their new pets. ","date_added":"1206581518","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24049","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A Home Away From home","username":"thabbate","rating":"5","pros":"Great respect for the animals ina homey environment","cons":"None","description":"This is the nicest shelter that i have ever visited. One side of the facility is for cats; the other for dogs. On the cat side, each cat has a personal cage, but is generally allowed to lounge in the large room on comfy couches and chairs, in kitty-condos, etc. The staff knows their personalities and provides for their needs. Cats who are not as well-socialized or who have special needs are placed in another room which is also large and clean. The volunteers are assigned to certain kittens and cats who need to learn socializing skills. The animals are never overwhelmed with too much activity but are given good stimuation. The cats medical needs are addressed on a regular basis. This is a no kill shelter. If I were a lost or abandoned cat, this is where I would want to be!!!!","date_added":"1206574960","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24048","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is the best!","username":"Vickysmom","rating":"5","pros":"Caring people","cons":"Needs a makeover","description":"I adopted both of my dogs from DAWS. I am so impressed with their dedication to the animals, their professionalism and their organization. They are very careful about adoptive families. As much as they want their animals to be placed into homes, they will deny unsuitable adoption applications. They are very honest in their description of their animals. They won't try to snow you.\\n\\nAfter the adoption, they follow up. They will help with any problems. If worst comes to worst, they will take the animal back into their shelter.\\n\\nWhen the weather is bad, I think of the devoted DAWS volunteers who take care of their animal charges no matter what!\\n\\nDAWS volunteers are so concerned about homeless animals that they will travel great distances to rescue from high-kill shelters and from other hardship situations.\\n\\nI can't praise them enough!","date_added":"1206491664","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24047","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS Wants Good Homes For Their Animals!","username":"LizMc","rating":"5","pros":"REALLY care about their animals!!!","cons":"None","description":"They care about the animals SO much! The animals they have there are always perfect! They know whatanimal is JUST right for you and your family!","date_added":"1206480305","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24046","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Puppy ","username":"Krisztinaism56","rating":"5","pros":"Amazing staff, loves to help","cons":"The shelter needs this makeover!!","description":"We just came back from the shelter, we applied for a puppy and have never met a more knowledgeable, sweet team of a staff. The only thing that can improve this shelter is a makeover! They need it for the animals! This is the best shelter my family and I have ever adopted from. And we are looking foward to adopt from them again. ","date_added":"1206407031","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24045","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great place to get your pets from","username":"CatherineMc","rating":"5","pros":"They really care about the animals!","cons":"None","description":"DAWS is a great place to adopt a pet. They care about the animals and want to find them a good home.They can pick out the best pets for you. DAWS is a caring community and a great place for dogs to live!","date_added":"1206398823","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24044","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A HEART OF GOLD","username":"ANNEWOLPERT","rating":"5","pros":"DEDICATED STAFF","cons":"TIGHT QUARTERS","description":"\"D\"EDICATED, \"A\"FFECTIONATE, \"W\"ARMHEARTED AND \"S\"ELFLESS) IS WHAT I CALL D.A.W.S. \\nMY EXPERIENCE ADOPTING CHI CHI, MY LITTLE POMERANIAN WAS WONDERFUL. THE STAFF IS SO LOVING AND KIND AND HAVE ALL THE ANIMALS BEST INTERESTS IN MIND. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE FACT THAT THEY PLACE THESE FURRY LITTLE FRIENDS WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN APPROVED, AND NOT JUST HANDED OVER TO ANYONE. THIS WELFARE SOCIETY IS MOST DESERVING TO WIN THE MAKE OVER.","date_added":"1206394336","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24043","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"An amazing center","username":"RobinThongkham","rating":"5","pros":"The volunteers","cons":"needs a makeover","description":"It's amazing how dedicated the volunteers are are and how connected they are with the animals even after they are placed. They understand what a sense of urgency is with each and every animal and seek out those that are able to provide a loving and nurturing home. In all, they deserve the makeover to support current and future animals","date_added":"1206341630","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24042","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"very deserving","username":"vanessasmom","rating":"5","pros":"no kill shelter !!","cons":"A little far from my house","description":"We adopted Miss V from here in July 2005. There were very helpful & kept in touch thru the whole process. We were allowed as much time as we needed with her to decide she was the one & there was no pressure to adopt any animal it was all up to us. I also love that they check your background before you can take the animal home so noone ends up in a bad situation. I truly believe my girly had a troubled past that ended when she was brought up north from West Virginia to DAWS. We are greatful to them for bringing her here for us & they deserve some help in return.","date_added":"1206326296","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24041","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS - volunteer-run shelter of caring volunteers","username":"ElaineZito","rating":"5","pros":"Dedicated volunteers and staff, well-run, organized, animals their priority","cons":"Limited funds and space, shelter in need of new facility","description":"Danbury Animal Welfare Society has given second chances to hundreds of dogs and cats for the past 30+ years.\\r\\nServicing the greater Danbury, CT area volunteers are dedicated to providing shelter and placement in loving homes to the animals in their care. They have ongoing outreach programs of community awareness teaching pet care and safety, trap\/neuter\/release program for feral cats, and a low cost program program to help pet owners who cannot afford to spay\/neuter their pets, to name a few of their services. I know that they are very dedicated to assist in lowering the over-population of feral cats in the Danbury area, and that each year approximately 150-200 cats are spay\/neutered through the trap\/neuter\/realse program equaling thousands of unwanted feral cats not born to feral colonies each year. I have also adopted a pet from DAWS and have always been treated with thoughtfullness and I am happy to know that their first priority is the welfare of the animals in their care. ","date_added":"1206270942","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24040","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Totally Deserves a makeover","username":"evi","rating":"5","pros":"This is a dedicated group of folks who care","cons":"Our shelter is a little small for our growing population","description":"Danbury Animal Welfare is a wonderfully dedicated group of folks who want the animals in their care to find perfect homes. They are careful with placement and the volunteers are just amazing. There is never a doubt that these people are there 100% for the animals... Great job!","date_added":"1206246706","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24039","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"adopted cats from shelter","username":"loreato","rating":"5","pros":"adopted 2 cats from shelter","cons":"they need more room","description":"We adopted 2 cats over they years that we have lived in bethel. It is a small building and they could really use more space!","date_added":"1206232645","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24038","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A wonderful shelter","username":"Piratica","rating":"5","pros":"DAWS is a wonderful place that doesn't destroy unadopted animals","cons":"It is a small facility","description":"We adopted two lovable kittens from DAWS that we absolutely adore. Before that we were a foster family for kittens. They never put down their cats or dogs and even take in friendly creatures on death row at other shelters. Their volunteers are all knowledgeable and compassionate and really care about all the creatures that pass through their doors.","date_added":"1206206032","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24037","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Animals Are Loved","username":"Sharona880","rating":"5","pros":"Wonderfully cared for animals, devoted volunteers","cons":"none","description":"We adoped our two wonderful cats from DAWS. This is a no-kill shelter and the animals are wonderfully cared for. The cats have an outdoor play area, and plenty of room inside. The staff and volunteers keep careful watch and if anyone seems sick they are immediately taken care of by a vet. Our kitties are so happy and the staff was more than helpful during the adoption process. We even had our adoption counselor's cell phone number if we needed anything. -- they even volunteered to come clip their nails! We are very thankful to have this shelter nearby.","date_added":"1206205600","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24036","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Found a Friend","username":"jodiklein","rating":"5","pros":"Separate outside areas to meet and greet the dogs","cons":"Small and old quarters","description":"Even though the place is small there is still lots of love.\\r\\nWe found our Jezabel at DAWS, rather she found us. She loves our large german shepard. I refer all my friends to the DAWS when they are looking new pets.\\r\\nI hope they win, they deserve it.","date_added":"1206201949","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24035","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great animals need for space.","username":"cwgreen","rating":"5","pros":"Makes their pets so adoptable","cons":"Needs more space for pets!","description":"Visit their shelter everyone was great! showed me many needy pets looking for their \"Forever Home\" They really need more space as they are a no kill shelter! they spend lots of time with the animals so they can go home with the right family. Wish I could take all the animals home. Hope people will visit and adopt them soon!","date_added":"1206199596","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24034","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"RMMBTHL","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff","cons":"Needs makeover!","description":"DAWS great staff helped us find the perfect addition to our family. ","date_added":"1206184395","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24033","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"WERNER","rating":"5","pros":"HELPFUL STAFF,VERY CLEAN","cons":"OUTDATED BUILDING","description":"VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND HELPFUL STAFF.EXTREMELY CLEAN BUILDING,AREAS OF BUILDING SEVERELY OUTDATED.LOTS OF LOVING PETS AWAITING ADOPTION.","date_added":"1206163436","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24030","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is a home run","username":"RuthieD","rating":"5","pros":"Conscienious, Animal Focused, Caring","cons":"none that I am aware of","description":"We hit a homerun when we adopted one of our dogs, they were welcoming, helpful, and the dogs were their top priority. They were patient and very up front about the process. I have recommended DAWS to many friends and my husbands brother adopted a dog and they are the best pair ever. Our dogs also go to Wags (a doggy daycare center) and they are involved with DAWS, I love that my dogs socialize and help the shelter dogs. We donate supplies yearly, along with a family \"drive\" to donate supplies even though it's been four years since we adopted. They will always have a place in our lives. (We often check their webpage to see who is available - and cheer when dogs are adopted!) They do a SUPER Job!","date_added":"1206151743","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24032","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great place!","username":"MelliJ","rating":"5","pros":"Nice people, well kept","cons":"Smaller, older building.","description":"We've donated items to them each of the last few years. Every time we go, they invite us in to visit with some of the kitties. It's so nice of them to do that! We really enjoy our visits there, and feel great doing something nice for the animals.","date_added":"1206151681","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24031","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Adopted my two babies from DAWS!","username":"Suz123","rating":"4","pros":"Will help no matter what","cons":"needs more room","description":"My husband and I adopted our two cats from DAWS. They are now 6 years old and doing well. \\n\\nDAWS helped me with several feral cats that I had at my house. They helped with the trapping, spaying and neutering. \\n\\nThey have many compassionate volunteers who help find wonderful homes many cats and dogs. Thank you!!!","date_added":"1206141283","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24029","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"They truely love all the animals","username":"jpethybridge","rating":"5","pros":"Caring staff, No kill shelter","cons":"None","description":"My wife and I have adopted two dogs and two cats from DAWS. They take such great care of each and everyone of the poor creatures that end up there. The facillity is in need of much repair, but that doesn't mean that anything is lacking at the shelter. Great care is given to all who resided there. A pet counselor will meet with you to find out what cat or dog will fit your life style. When we adopted the dogs, Ben and Chino, they made sure that each one would get along with the other dog in our household. A meeting takes place at the shelter to make sure the match is right and that the pooches will get along with each other. The staff at the shelter do all that they can to make sure that each animal is taken care of, emotionally and physically. Lots of love at that shelter!\\n\\n","date_added":"1206088705","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24028","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great place to adopt an animal ","username":"MartyXC","rating":"5","pros":"Good location and great people.","cons":"needs more space","description":"I can't believe how helpful these people are. They made it so easy to adopt my dog. ","date_added":"1206082883","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24027","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great Website","username":"GloriaCasey","rating":"5","pros":"DAWS has a great website","cons":"Can't think of any.","description":"DAWS has a great website and the volunteers that write the 'bio's of the animals waiting to be adopted have a nice way with words... it captures your interest and makes you want to meet the dog or cat ... there was a bio and photo of a dog name Happy, and I actually think they got the dog to smile for the camera. All this is indicative of the love and warmth one finds at the Danbury Animal Welfare Shelter. ","date_added":"1206081538","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24026","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great people, good work.","username":"BeagleMom1","rating":"5","pros":"A good animal shelter with people that care.","cons":"*","description":"The people at Daws helped us with Homer when we weren't sure whether we could\/would keep him. They arranged for him to be neutered for a lesser cost than the Vet and possibly put up for adoption through them. But in the end we decided to keep him and they were even happier with that.\\r\\nThey do a great job and even though they do, I wish it wasn't necessary for them to do it. But as long as people aren't responsible enough, I am sure DAWS will continue to do what needs to be done.","date_added":"1206052900","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24025","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"wonderfull Cause","username":"foxywench","rating":"4","pros":"great cause","cons":"middle of a housing neighborhood, shelter needs UPGRADES","description":"such great people and such a great place.\\r\\nif it wasnt for the noise disturbing the neighborhood it would get a perfect 5","date_added":"1206052123","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24024","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS rules!","username":"bfowlerct","rating":"5","pros":"Clean","cons":"None","description":"My friend volunteers at DAWS and tells me what a great place it is for the homeless animals. It would be great for DAWS to get a new shelter!\\r\\n\\r\\n","date_added":"1206046179","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24023","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"They do so much with so little","username":"brucecaplin","rating":"5","pros":"They are doing a great job rescuing, caring for and placing dogs and cats","cons":"Like many shelters, they are underfunded","description":"This shelter has a very committed volunteer staff that is absolutely essential to their work. The dog committee is innovative, hard working and successful.\\n\\nThe dogs are all enrolled in a play date, rehabilitation and training program that keeps their minds active and happy.","date_added":"1206045038","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24022","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"a wonderful, caring organization!","username":"cmcarlucci","rating":"5","pros":"very knowledgable and caring volunteers - wonderful animal care!!","cons":"none!","description":"DAWS is a truly special organization. Each rescued animal is treated like a beloved personal pet. I have served as a foster mom for kittens and cats for 2 years and adopted 2 cats from DAWS and I am continually amazed at the excellent care each animal receives!","date_added":"1206039564","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24021","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"What a great place!","username":"larcar","rating":"5","pros":"Adopts out many homeless animals, no kill shelter.","cons":"Needs some major renovations!","description":"Our son volunteers at DAWS and tells us what a great place this shelter is for the homeless animals. The volunteer staff is great, and animals are treated so well! There are lots of fundraisers and donations, but simply not enough to complete any major renovations...think what could be accomplished with a brand new shelter!!","date_added":"1206021960","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24020","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Our cats are DAWS cats and proud of it!","username":"Dougal","rating":"5","pros":"Great group of volunteers","cons":"run-down facility","description":"We found all of our cats at DAWS. The counselors were fantastic, very supportive, and helped us find the best cats ever. Thanks, DAWS! Good luck!","date_added":"1205988642","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24019","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"It's the Best","username":"kataubert","rating":"5","pros":"puts the animals first. Volunteer owned and operated. Efficient.","cons":"none, other than the need for more space and updated facilities. ","description":"I was involved as a volunteer with DAWS when I livedi in CT and served a term as President. I can tell you that this organization is among the best in all categories of not-for-profit organizations. DAWS is totally volunteer owned and operated, and for almost 40 years has been operating as a \"no-kill\" shelter finding homes for abandoned and abused animals, and making it work. I can think of no better organization to benefit from this extraordinary opportunity, to allow it to do more good works for the hundreds of cats and dogs (and other animals) it helps each year.\\r\\nI am proud to be a supporter of DAWS to date, even though I am now a resident of FLorida.\\r\\nKathryn Taubert","date_added":"1205984837","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24018","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is awesome","username":"LizDeschnow","rating":"5","pros":"We got our baby","cons":"We didn't visit DAWS sooner","description":"DAWS is a great place to meet and adopt a pet. We adopted our dog from DAWS, and she's the best thing in our lives. The staff is kind and make you feel right at home. Our dog was a SATO rescue dog and had been hit by a car. The title with her picture on the DAWS website was \"please help a special girl\", but this special girl has helped us more than we could ever have imagined. I've never met more compassionate animal lovers. What the staff at DAWS does is amazing and admirable. We are forever indebted to them all for taking such good care of our girl until she came into our lives. ","date_added":"1205984541","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24017","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS IS THE PURRFECT PLACE TO ADOPT FROM","username":"JCT53","rating":"5","pros":"No Kill Shelter","cons":"Shelter needs updating","description":"My current cat was adopted from DAWS. The volunteers were very helpful. They took the time to make sure it was just the right cat for me, and that I was the right home for the cat. It was a match made in heaven and we both think DAWS volunteers are Purrfect!!!! \\r\\n\\r\\n","date_added":"1205969663","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24016","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is \"paws\"itively wonderful!","username":"redeemedrn","rating":"5","pros":"Great committed volunteers who truly love their involvement!","cons":"Shelter has been outgrown and needs a makeover!! :-)","description":"DAWS is a great place. We adopted a dog from there. I love the way they have a book to look through and then bring the dog to meet you instead of just walking people through the kennels. ","date_added":"1205962127","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24015","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"These folks have a great love and compassion for the ophans in their care.","username":"AnneM","rating":"5","pros":"They are caring and try real hard to educate every adoptive family.","cons":"Small facility could use some money to update.","description":"These folks go above the norm to educate the new adoptive families on the care of the animals they adopt. Their love for the animals is evident and they really try hard to match the orphans with new parents. ","date_added":"1205940224","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24014","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Special Place","username":"Zazzy101","rating":"5","pros":"Staff and volunteers do a phenominal job","cons":"none","description":"DAWS is a special organization that dearly loves their orphan animals. All potential adopters are thoroughly evaluated before taking home their new furry friend.","date_added":"1205899846","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24013","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS, a wonderful refuge for cats and dogs","username":"LisaAshla","rating":"5","pros":"Lots of friendly dogs and cats up for adoption","cons":"Not the most welcoming looking place - needs updates","description":"DAWS is a wonderful shelter for dogs and cats. The volunteers are amazing and have a deep love for animals. DAWS incorporates formal training for the dogs to help them in the adoption process. The buidling could really use some TLC to make it warm and welcoming not only to the public but also for the animals. ","date_added":"1205897034","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24012","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Danbury needs our help!","username":"FJBory","rating":"5","pros":"Excellent and caring staff. Well cared for animals.","cons":"Outdated facility that is too small for the needs of Danbury.","description":"Our daughter wanted a dog of her own when she bought a home 2 years ago. We all went to DAWS to see what they had. The staff was wonderful and quickly understood the size and type of animal that would make her happy. She selected a hound mix that has a wonderful personality and is very loving. I believe that is due to the people at DAWS; their knowledge and experience at identifying the right animal for the person.","date_added":"1205882229","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24011","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Lots of love here","username":"piskwa","rating":"5","pros":"You can feel the love!","cons":"needs facelift, more space","description":"Talk to any of the volunteers here and you will feel the love they have for the cats and dogs! They are extremely dedicated and hard-working. Kudos and best of luck with the makeover.","date_added":"1205877297","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24010","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Danbury Animal Welfare brings friends together!","username":"PepperOni","rating":"5","pros":"Dedication. Compassion. Knowledge of Animals. Best interest of animals in mind. ","cons":"Needs shelter updated. ","description":"We adopted our dog Pepper from Danbury Animal welfare Society and after seeing the high level of dedication and compassion from the volunteers and staff, it prompted me to get involved and become a volunteer myself. \\r\\n\\r\\nEveryone at Danbury Animal Welfare Society truly has the best interest of the cats and dogs residing there in mind. The animals are the #1 priority. \\r\\n\\r\\nIt would be hard to find anyone as dedicated as this group of volunteers and staff. The adoption counselors make sure that the cats and dogs are matched with the best suitable adopters so that the animals never have to be in a bad situation again. ","date_added":"1205871945","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24009","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Very Dedicated Volunteers","username":"RuthS","rating":"5","pros":"Dedicated Volunteers, Welfare of the animals comes first","cons":"Shelter falling apart","description":"DAWS has the most dedicated volunteers. \\r\\nSome of the volunteers work as many hours volunteering as they do with their full time job. That's dedication!!!\\r\\n","date_added":"1205869224","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24008","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great Organization","username":"freespirit53","rating":"5","pros":"No kill shelter","cons":"Not enough room to take in more animals","description":"My husband and I adopted all three of our cats from DAWS and each time had a great experience. DAWS is almost all volunteers and they are a dedicated caring group of people. It is amazing what they do with limited space and funding. ","date_added":"1205863291","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24007","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Wonderful Shelter","username":"badserra","rating":"5","pros":"Friendly, knoweldgeable, animal loving","cons":"none","description":"I came to Danbury Animal Welfare Society after the death of my beloved kitty Stimpy. I never thought I would recover from his loss - but thought I might be able to help another kitty by giving him a home. DAWS made me feel welcome and offered me a kind word and helped me pick the perfect kitty. 4 cats later, I became a volunteer and have been with them for the past 5 years. I love the organization and what they are doing to help homeless and neglected animals in their community.","date_added":"1205862439","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24006","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Love DAWS","username":"jmmastra","rating":"5","pros":"Friendly volunteers","cons":"Shelter is too small and can not accommodate all the animals that need care.","description":"DAWS is wonderful! I have adopted two cats and was a volunteer. I moved away and I miss not only the animals but the volunteers terribly. Everyone is so dedicated to finding the very best home for every animal that finds its way to DAWS. It is a great shelter!\\r\\n","date_added":"1205830515","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24005","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"The Best Shelter in Connecticut!","username":"lulupethybridge","rating":"5","pros":"Great volunteers!","cons":"None!","description":"My husband and I have adopted 2 dogs and 2 cats from DAWS. They are the kindest and most hard working people I have ever met. Any time the need donations we always try to give what we can. If anyone deserves the top spot is this shelter! A++++++++ all the way!","date_added":"1205819595","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24004","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Very dedicated volunteers","username":"BigAl47","rating":"5","pros":"Dedicated volunteers, welfare of the animals comes first","cons":"None","description":"Not even rain, snow, sleet or a holiday keeps the dedicated volunteers @ DAWS away from taking care of the animals.\\r\\n ","date_added":"1205814133","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24003","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS - bringing pets to their forever homes","username":"Joycie","rating":"5","pros":"Caring, compassionate, dedicated","cons":"None","description":"I was first introduced to DAWS by a co-worker and volunteer at DAWS. I had recen tly lost my beloved Louis , who had been with me for 14 years. I was ready to adopt again. She first directed me to the website, which was full of fabulous photos and wonderful descriptions of the animals for adoption. I was looking for two cats. The webite gave me the opportunity to \"get aquainted\" with the cats in need of adoption. From the website I was able to choose two that I was interested in and arranged to meet them to see if we made a \"love connection\". My hat is off to DAWS, they were so compassionate about my recent loss, they gave me time with all the cats and full tour of the facility. The cats are well cared for and I was impressed with their dedication and attention to detail. They carefully screen their adoptions, checking references and vet histories, which is ESSENTIAL to a succesful adoption. I highly recommend them and support their efforts by sponsoring as much and as often as I possibly can. ","date_added":"1205813690","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24002","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"great!","username":"squeaky82","rating":"5","pros":"staff","cons":"none!","description":"Very helpful staff of volunteers","date_added":"1205811047","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24001","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Best Cats around!!","username":"KitKat03","rating":"5","pros":"Excellent selection of cats & helpful counselors ","cons":"None","description":"If you are looking for a cat look no further than DAWS.\\r\\nThey have a huge selection and the counselors were very helpful. They took the time to make sure the cat we choose was just right for us and our other cat. \\r\\nWe appreciated that they went the extra mile for us.\\r\\nGood luck and we hope you win!!!!! ","date_added":"1205810973","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"24000","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"great place!","username":"katie110283","rating":"5","pros":"great place, care so much about the animals","cons":"need a makeover","description":"DAWS is a great place. Volunteers care so much about the animals and do their best to match them to their forever homes","date_added":"1205810879","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23999","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Total Supporter","username":"Kalimonster","rating":"5","pros":"Caring volunteers. Variety of choice, great website","cons":"no photo's on line of kittens. Too much choice","description":"It is great that when looking to take home a pet that you have a variety to try to match personality and type of lifestyle, however its sad to say there is too much choice. (Too many homeless).\\r\\n\\r\\nThis organization has been doing great work. I was sad that they did not hold the silent auction this year.\\r\\n\\r\\nThey have a fab website however it would be great if they could get pix of kittens on line.","date_added":"1205808610","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23998","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"They really care","username":"meredithbilly","rating":"5","pros":"Caring dedicated volunteers","cons":"Shelter in need of repair ","description":"The volunteers really care about the well being of all the animals they have at their shelter.\\r\\nThe shelter is in need of repair. ","date_added":"1205783236","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23997","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Very dedicated and caring!","username":"Bethbogey","rating":"5","pros":"Awesome volunteers","cons":"building needs help","description":"DAWS has a very knowledgable staff and very dedicated too!The animals are so very lucky.","date_added":"1205782034","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23996","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"best place to get a pet","username":"astro","rating":"5","pros":"great staff","cons":"none","description":"staff will take the time to make sure you find the right pet","date_added":"1205775593","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23995","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great Place to Volunteer AND Adopt","username":"BBRed","rating":"5","pros":"Caring Compassionate Staff","cons":"In desperate need of repairs\/updates","description":"I love volunteering here at DAWS, the people are all so caring and compassionate about the animals. When we tuck them in at night with their blankets and treats, we can rest that they are all in a safe environment waiting for their forever homes. \\r\\nEnzo was at DAWS, and I gave him a forever home with his older 'stepbrother' Kody!\\r\\n","date_added":"1205734491","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23994","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS in one of the best shelters in the area! ","username":"lilpeanuthead","rating":"5","pros":"People, training, services, fundraising events","cons":"logistics really need a makeover! more room for adoption intros, more space for animals!","description":"DAWS has great people as well as great animals! Who you deal with makes a difference in your adoption experience as well as desire to volunteer and even donate! Thanks to the DAWS staff for all they do. ","date_added":"1205730116","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23993","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"GREAT Place","username":"KATTREIN","rating":"5","pros":"Wonderful Staff","cons":"The shelter really needs work","description":"DAWS does a lot of great work for the community. Besides helping to find homes for all the animals, they provide low cost spay\/neuter, and trap, spay\/neuter & release the ferel cats as well.\\r\\nKeep up all the good work!","date_added":"1205729537","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23992","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Love DAWS","username":"BQuint","rating":"5","pros":"very knowledgeable, friendly","cons":"They need more room for their animals","description":"I love DAWS. I got both of my kitties from them. The staff was wonderful. If I were to ever get another cat, I would definitely go to DAWS!","date_added":"1205722978","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23991","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS ROCKS","username":"Wkennen","rating":"5","pros":"Knowledgeable staff, clean environment ","cons":"none","description":"I have really enjoyed my visits and adoption from DAWS. I can't say enough about this establishment. It is an absolute delight to experience an adoption through their knowledgeable and cordial staff, in their relaxed, pleasant atmosphere. There seems to be a high turnover rate, and that makes me happy to know that the animals are finding homes. Kudos to you, DAWS! ","date_added":"1205696906","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23990","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"a very special place","username":"den27nis","rating":"5","pros":"clean, caring staff","cons":"they could use more resources to provide for more animals","description":"this is a very special place - we adopted two cats and the staff was excellent helping us choose cats (or was it that the cats chose us...) that were right for our family.\\n\\n\\n","date_added":"1205648041","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23989","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is incredible!","username":"jehartman","rating":"5","pros":"No-kill shelter","cons":"None","description":"DAWS does great work not only sheltering dogs and cats from their area, but also transporting dogs to Connecticut from other parts of the country, including Puerto Rico, where they participate in the Save-A-Sato program. Their dedication in finding homes for these animals is unmatched and they should be commended for their incredible work. Thanks, DAWS!!","date_added":"1205643950","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23988","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS IS GREAT","username":"HugeCatTinyDog","rating":"5","pros":"awesome staff that love animals","cons":"how can there be a con about an animal shelter?","description":"DAWS is a household name if you live in the greater Danbury area. The staff is friendly and helpful, and you can really tell that they all love animals and have a deep passion about their wellbeing.","date_added":"1205643334","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23987","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Adoption ","username":"Lizsmith","rating":"5","pros":"good people","cons":"poor facilities","description":"when we went looking for a dog and found our Inca she was a great dog, very fun and outgoing. However, after we picked her up we found that she had issues with my husband even though she had met him. We called DAWS and had a person on the phone within an hour then the next day (a sunday) a wonderful volunteer came and spent the day with us working with the Inca. She had thought that she would have to bring her back to the shelter but we wanted to try to make it work and with the volunteer's patience and ours and especially my husband's we have had a wonderful pet for the last four year and hope to have her as part of our family for many years to come.\\r\\nThis is customer service...any problem, any time they will be there for you and your animal.","date_added":"1205643063","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23986","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is a great shelter.","username":"Keveronis","rating":"5","pros":"Wide range of dogs available for adoption.","cons":"Facility is failing.","description":"Great people and dogs. DAWS does an enormous amount of annual turnover. The facility is decrepit though. They need a new space.","date_added":"1205640196","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23985","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great Place to Volunteer","username":"LynnLucyDoris","rating":"5","pros":"Lots of caring and dedicated volunteers!","cons":"None","description":"Volunteering has made a difference in my life. I'm glad to say it's the very best part about retiring...more time for the animals!","date_added":"1205635010","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23984","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS review","username":"ILoveNitro","rating":"5","pros":"Good to animals, very clean, good staff and enviorment to work in","cons":"none","description":"I used to work at DAWS and its a very good animal shelter. There very clean and caring towards the animals and staff. The work area was good everybody was friendly and helpful to each other and everybody has a good kind heart.","date_added":"1205627883","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23983","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great Shelter","username":"lsignorini","rating":"5","pros":"Warm, welcoming staff","cons":"None","description":"A great shelter for animals in need of adoption. DAWS is staffed with so many caring people and have done a great job of garnering community support. A shelter deerving of support and donations for the service that they provide to the animals and the community.","date_added":"1205627712","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23982","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"So many caring people in one place","username":"mavolpe","rating":"5","pros":"Always put animals first","cons":"facility need some love","description":"The animals get all the love and care they need from a dedicated, caring staff and awesome volunteers. So they don't notice the facility needs a little love, because they are getting everything they need from these wonderful people. I've only been volunteering here for 6 months, but my Friday nights with the dogs are one of the highlights of my week. ","date_added":"1205626173","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23981","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Loving Place!","username":"llewell","rating":"5","pros":"Very caring staff and volunteers","cons":"Facility in need of renovating","description":"I started volunteering at DAWS as a dog walker in Nov 07. What a loving place! There is an incredible amount of love for the animals housed there. Many times I've seen instances of great tenderness and gentleness with a new dog that has been especially scared and also with long timers needing that extra bit of reassurance. A lot goes into making sure the animals are going to loving homes. A truly wonderful place!","date_added":"1205625625","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23980","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"We're lucky to have DAWS in our community","username":"KathCT","rating":"5","pros":"Much attention given to the health and happiness of the animals, and finding them the right home","cons":"Facility, particularly dog kennels, are in dire need of renovation","description":"I used to volunteer a lot of time with DAWS, but now due to other responsibilities just help out with the occasional transport of dogs. I have visited a lot of shelters over the years, and never have I seen an animal group accomplish so much with so little. The facility is a renovated house, adapted to use as a shelter, yet manages to safely and cleanly house over 100 animals at a time. There is a small paid staff but volunteers run all the programs, perform all the adoptions, answer all the phone calls, and do all the fundraising. The in-house spay-neuter clinic is a HUGE asset, allowing DAWS the unique ability to help vast numbers of feral cats as well as neuter all puppies of any age before they get released for adoption. DAWS is a great place to visit for anyone looking to adopt due to the thorough medical work that is done pre-adoption as well as behavior evaluations to determine the best environment for the dog or cat.","date_added":"1205623309","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23979","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS for our friends with PAWS","username":"tombenedetto","rating":"5","pros":"Great purpose, Great People","cons":"High animal to volunteer ratio.","description":"Great shelter run by people with hearts of gold !\\nKeep up the good work DAWS, our little friends need you.","date_added":"1205622951","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23978","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great place with a BIG HEART","username":"bls2103","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff and animals deserving of a new home","cons":"small shelter in need of a make over","description":"This small shelter depends on volunteers and donations. They have a big heart and the animals are well cared for. The dogs and cats there would make wonderful pets and a makeover would be well deserved and deserved.","date_added":"1205621163","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23977","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A happy place","username":"Tina123","rating":"5","pros":"Everything","cons":"None","description":"We adopted a kitten a few years back to keep our 2 older ones company. We love her and her feisty personality and were very impressed with the staff at DAWS. Every year now when we get our AMEX reward check (and whenever else possible) we go shopping at Costco for supplies for the shelter. This is also the time we clean out old towels and blankets so the animals currently living there can sleep comfortably, until they find their forever homes. I really hope DAWS wins the grand prize but it will not stop us from still contributing whenever we can.","date_added":"1205619741","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23976","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is great!","username":"Tibvixie101","rating":"5","pros":"close to home, great volunteers","cons":"none","description":"Our family has been volunteering and adopting animals from DAWS for many years. Their volunteers, and staff are very informative, they are great with the animals they house, giving them lots of love and attention, and they are always out and about raising awareness about rescueing and helping to save animals!","date_added":"1205619562","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23975","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"I Love Daws!","username":"brentwolfe","rating":"5","pros":"When the majority of your support comes from volunteers, you know the people enjoy what they do.","cons":"The facility is very dated and requires lots of attention","description":"Due to the lack of, or almost non-existant funding from the local governments, the volunteers, and generous donations from animal lovers, keep the walls up, dogs & cats fed. Thank you to all the volunteers and staff members that continue to support the local areas. ","date_added":"1205609859","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23974","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS deserves a makeover!!!","username":"Manja","rating":"5","pros":"excellent volunteers, great adoption policies, great dogs!","cons":"NONE!!!","description":"This shelter is amazing. My husband and I have been volunteers at DAWS for the past 2 years and we both love it. We will be moving away from the area in a couple of months, and the thing that we will probably miss most is DAWS. The people at DAWS are wonderful, and the devotion to caring for the dogs is incredible. I have never seen such hard working volunteers. While the people (and dogs!!) are top notch, the facility could use a serious makeover. ","date_added":"1205608509","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23973","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great shelter","username":"Piglet666","rating":"5","pros":"Always there to help","cons":"none","description":"My sister just adopted 2 cats from this shelter recently, and they helped me a few years back. There is ALWAYS somebody affiliated with this shelter willing to help when needed, and I couldn't think of a more worthy cause to donate to. DAWS will always be my first stop when looking for a new addition to my \"family\". Keep up the good work guys - I hope you make it to the top 20!!!","date_added":"1205608225","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23972","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great shelter volunteers, facilities could be better for dogs","username":"innisfree","rating":"4","pros":"Great people, cat area is nice because they can be outside in enclosure","cons":"Dog area is primitive, not a home-like environment which I think is stressful over time","description":"DAWS is committed to working with people who are responsible and want to adopt pets. Although I rescued my dogs from a high-kill shelter down south directly through petfinder a few years ago, DAWS is now getting into more of this type of work which I think is extremely important. I hope that they wint he makeover because the dog area could be so much better, and they could help even more dogs. Their network is amazing, and they get the cutest dogs from all over the country (and PR) now. Adopt a shelter dog - don't buy while shelter dogs die! (caveat- DAWS is no-kill but the other shelters in other parts of the country that they connect with may not be)","date_added":"1205597440","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23971","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Dedicated and loving volunteer","username":"lofrs","rating":"5","pros":"great volunteers that love there animals","cons":"need improvements and repairs, need this makeover","description":"My daughter volunteers at the shelter and I see how much she truly cares for the animals. The staff\/volunteers really love those animals but repairs are greatly needed. They need this makeover so they can help more animals find a loving home.","date_added":"1205560015","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23970","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great Experience","username":"MarianMerr1","rating":"5","pros":"Caring Shelter","cons":"None","description":"Its been years since I have been to the shelter but we have adopted from DAWs on the past and will again in the future.","date_added":"1205552433","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23969","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Thank you DAWS!","username":"momsname","rating":"5","pros":"They find great homes for cats and dogs","cons":"They need a makeover!","description":"Glad to help! The best shelter in Connecticut. We got our dog there last year and love him. The friendly folks at dogs helped us every step of the way. Keep up the good work!","date_added":"1205540556","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23968","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Highly Recommended!","username":"altmo","rating":"5","pros":"They treat the animals as their own","cons":"None","description":"My friend is a foster mom for DAWS kittens and she recommend DAWS when I was looking to adopt. The staff was very friendly and caring and you could tell that they loved the cats as if they were their own. I'm thinking of adding a second kitty and DAWS is the only place I would consider going!","date_added":"1205529770","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23967","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Best Selection in the area","username":"fishon","rating":"5","pros":"Wonderful Place to get your next animal","cons":"None","description":"We adopted 3 of our cats from DAWS. The cat adoption counselors know their cats inside and out. They take pride in what they do, and their service does not end once the cat is adopted. They have even made house calls to help trim nails, medicate, assistance with getting them in a carrier for a vet visit. The list goes on and on.\\r\\nThey are truly dedicated! ","date_added":"1205528220","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23966","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS Is #1","username":"flash58","rating":"5","pros":"They know their animals, work hard at finding the best home","cons":"Shelter in need of repair","description":"The best volunteers going!!!\\r\\nThey volunteer endless hours helping find the perfect home, and taking care of them until they do.\\r\\n","date_added":"1205526381","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23965","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"D.A.W.S. rocks","username":"Nikki474","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff, great place","cons":"none","description":"I'm fortunate enough to have seen some top notch animal shelters before, but D.A.W.S. is at the top of the list. I've never met a more caring and devoted staff. These folks are dedicated to keeping the animals healthy, happy, and are vigilant about making sure they find loving homes. Kudos D.A.W.S.! (Chris B. is an outstanding volunteer; she gives her whole heart to these furbabies. Love ya Chris!)","date_added":"1205520205","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23964","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is wonderful!","username":"oxywyrm","rating":"5","pros":"great staff, animalls are well loved and cared for!","cons":"Needs more space for more animals!","description":"Six years ago when I wanted to adopt a kitten I was told that DAWS was the place to go. I wasn't disappointed! The staff was friendly and helpful and we got a great kitten. I have friends who volunteer at DAWS and act as foster homes and I always love hearing the success stories of the cats that find loving homes. Highly recommended!","date_added":"1205483743","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23963","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great shelter!","username":"brescim","rating":"5","pros":"Great shelter","cons":"none","description":"I haven't visited the DAWS shelter for years but know of a co-worker that works there and is very passionate about their work. I did adopt a kitten from DAWS about 15 years ago and the staff was very friendly, professional and caring.","date_added":"1205475638","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23962","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is a great place","username":"mtldog","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff","cons":"none","description":"We just adopted a puppy from DAWS. The staff was incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We couldn't be happier with the new addition to our family. We are so thankful that DAWS does what it does.","date_added":"1205468848","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23961","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS deserves a makeover!","username":"mochacap","rating":"5","pros":"Really care for the animals!","cons":"Kind of hard to find","description":"Great shelter that really cares for the animals while they are waiting for their new homes. Unlike many shelters that I've seen that traumatize the pets, DAWS spends time giving the pets attention and training to help thembe better prepared tor their new homes. Well deserving of a makeover!!","date_added":"1205462622","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23960","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"One passionate volunteer!!!","username":"DTM","rating":"5","pros":"Helping needy pets","cons":"N\/A","description":"I must admit up front that I do not know much about DAWS. I have never been there and I only know one volunteer, Jodie S. But I felt compelled to write a review as a result of the passion that Jodie demonstrates for this shelter and the people and animals which comprise it. It is impressive to see how much Jodie and the other employees and volunteers dedicate their time and energy to helping these pets. I only know of this by speaking to Jodie and reading the other reviews on this site. I hope that my participation helps get DAWS the makeover that they are striving for. ","date_added":"1205444434","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23959","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"They go the extra mile!","username":"mocat4","rating":"5","pros":"Warm, caring, friendly people. Animals are well cared for.","cons":"Not enough space to house all the animals that need care.","description":"As both an adopter and a volunteer I've had the chance to see the wonderful people at DAWS in action from both sides of the adoption process. The animals are all well loved and cared for, and the best part about being a volunteer is watching the kitties I've come to know and love find warm and welcome homes!","date_added":"1205438483","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23958","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great animal rescue","username":"ztT4MP79564914","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff, clean, animals lovingly taken care of!","cons":"NONE!","description":"Great facility and caring staff. If you need a pup or kitten or dog or cat adopt here! These kids are in need of permanent homes. We owe that much! Can't say enough great things about this facility!\\n\\nKevin M.\\nRedding, CT","date_added":"1205431759","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23957","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great place","username":"cefoster78","rating":"5","pros":"The friendly staff is very helpful.","cons":"none","description":"We just adopted a puppy from this shelter. They were helpful and kind. It was a very pleasant experience and she is a geat addition to our family.","date_added":"1205427013","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23956","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Tail Waggers","username":"drski23","rating":"5","pros":"Always can get the dog in for a bath!","cons":"Hours","description":"Great place to bring your dog for a bath (self service) and get your pet groomed. Staff is helpful.","date_added":"1205378198","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23955","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Exceptional Shelter","username":"denisequaka","rating":"5","pros":"nice large cages for cats, fenced in dog yards","cons":"Can't think of any","description":"Great place for animals to stay while waiting for their forever home. Each and every one gets individual attention from volunteers.","date_added":"1205347269","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23954","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Great place!","username":"kthamm","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff!","cons":"none","description":"What a nice place with a great bunch of volunteers!","date_added":"1205301040","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23953","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Wonderful Volunteer","username":"4dogmom","rating":"5","pros":"great volunteers","cons":"need a new shelter","description":"This organization is staffed by the best volunteers. The selection of cats and dogs is wonderful.","date_added":"1205283372","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23952","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"daws","username":"winkman","rating":"5","pros":"wonderful staff and volunteers","cons":"need a larger shelter","description":"what a special place! caring staff and volunteers who take wonderful care of the dogs and cats while they are in a transition phase of their life!!","date_added":"1205266662","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23951","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Dedicated Volunteers","username":"NASCARTONE","rating":"5","pros":"great organization","cons":"run down shelter","description":"I know first hand how dedicated the volunteers are to the animals in their care. ","date_added":"1205221558","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23950","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is Dandy!","username":"mdempsey19","rating":"5","pros":"They take great care of all the animals there.","cons":"They could use more space.","description":"It's amazing how much the shelter accomplishes with primarily volunteers. It's a real testament to the heart and soul of the people who help out there. It really is all about the animals with them.","date_added":"1205217715","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23949","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A great place to get a dog!","username":"DempBoys","rating":"5","pros":"Friendly, knowledgeable, caring","cons":"Parking lot floods during heavy rains","description":"I highly recommend this shelter when you are looking for a new pet. The dogs are well behaved, it shows that the volunteers spend as much time as they can getting them socialized. Each day you see the volunteers walking or playing with the dogs in the yard. It's nice to see how much they care for them.","date_added":"1205217549","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23948","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Danbury Animal Welfare Society is a Wonderful Place","username":"zeny1999","rating":"5","pros":"Knowledgeable caring volunteers","cons":"Wish they had daytime hours.","description":"i got my dog from DAWS many years ago. She is now my best friend. The staff was so nice, so caring, and so helpful. They really make sure that the dog finds the right home. ","date_added":"1205217373","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23947","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS Deserves the Best","username":"jimdempsey99","rating":"5","pros":"They match the right dog with the right family.","cons":"Need more space.","description":"My brother volunteers at the shelter so I often hear what great work they do. I love the Save-a-Sato program they support. I appreciate that they are a no kill shelter.","date_added":"1205217189","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23946","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A Loving Place for Companion Animals While They Wait","username":"lindah32b","rating":"5","pros":"Volunteers and staff who truly love the animals; cats not generally caged; no-kill shelter","cons":"Need more space!","description":"I've been a volunteer at DAWS for over 3 years and cannot speak highly enough of the dedicated volunteers who make a loving and safe home with good medical care for dogs and cats who would otherwise be homeless. Thanks to DAWS, countless companion animals have been placed in loving homes for over 30 years.","date_added":"1205201720","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23945","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"fostermom06","rating":"5","pros":"Very Nice Shelter","cons":"need more private areas for pet-owner viewing\/interacting ","description":"Daws is an excellent shelter. They care a lot about their animals. They are very good at finding future owners for them. They could always use more room to separate categories of animals and to provide places for prospective owners to view and interact with potential pets privately.","date_added":"1205199821","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23936","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Wonderful Place","username":"colleentrig","rating":"5","pros":"Excellent Volunteer Staff","cons":"none","description":"DAWS is a wonderful organization that does an amazing job taking care of pets and finding them homes. Their volunteers are the best and they put on great events to raise money for the animals. I already have a house full of dogs but when I'm looking for my next companion I will defininitely adopt from DAWS.","date_added":"1205175914","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23944","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A blessing to the animals","username":"cyr1","rating":"5","pros":"The staff of volunteers are a great bunch of people who truely care for the well being of the animals brought in.","cons":"They need more room for the animals to match the room in their hearts for these pets!","description":"I personally think that DAWS is a blessing! After losing my best friend Tyra in October of 2006 I was devastated. I turned to DAWS to help heal my heart by offering to run a fundraiser to benefit the shelter. I felt this would benefit both of us. After helping with the fundraiser, I stayed in touch with Melissa and constantly checked the website. We were introduced to Gracie in March of 2007. Thanks to DAWS we have found a great pup and a new best friend for our golden, Max. She was rescued by DAWS from a shelter in Tennessee and brought here. They took great care of her while she was with them. She is just one example of the many animals that DAWS saves and finds the perfect forever family for!","date_added":"1205127017","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23943","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is Great!!!","username":"bretback","rating":"5","pros":"Volunteers who love and care for Animals in need","cons":"Needs cash badly ","description":"My wife volunteers here and they do a terrific job with the dogs who for the most part were in high kill shelters. Now they are safe in a No kill shelter and find great homes. Our dog Scarlett came from Daws.","date_added":"1205113664","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23942","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Annie and I are greatful! ","username":"alisoncole22","rating":"5","pros":"hard working people who care about the future of the animals","cons":"such a small facility","description":"I got my dog Annie from DAWS in May of 2007 and I've been volunteering there ever since. The people are great... so friendly and helpful. It's so great to see such a quick turn-around. Everyone is so dedicated to finding these animals homes that the pets all go so quickly! And they don't give up on the dogs that are hard to place... Annie is proof of that. After I got her and saw what good care they took of her while she was there, I knew I had to help out and keep other dogs happy until they find their forever homes. I want to thank all the people who made Annie a happy dog before she became my dog! ","date_added":"1205112698","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23941","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS has Heart","username":"GertieD","rating":"5","pros":"Caring, Honest, Loving, Respectful","cons":"They need more space.","description":"My son is a volunteer at DAWS so I hear first hand what a great organization they are. It amazes me to hear some of the stories - how they treat the dogs with special medical needs no matter what the cost; that they ensure that the dog finds the right home (and will not adopt a dog out if it is not a right fit for the dog!). It's a wonderful organization that deserves additional space and new facilities to continue the great work for many years to come.\\r\\n ","date_added":"1205092650","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23940","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Excellent, honest facility","username":"DeboraFitzgerald","rating":"5","pros":"Excellent, knowledgeable, compassionate staff; great program","cons":"needs more money for improvements","description":"After an impressive screening, that included an actual check into my references and a meeting with the dog that Rex would spend lots of time with, I adopted the best dog from DAWS. All of the people involved were knowledgeable and courteous. All genuinely wanted Rex to be placed not quickly, but appropriately. He is a high energy dog who had seen his share of hardship and DAWS saw to it that he got his forever home with someone who would genuinely meet his needs. He has brought tremendous joy to my home and is a social butterfly about the neighborhood. DAWS is a worthy organization.","date_added":"1205090663","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23939","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"ztT4MP30996288","rating":"5","pros":"large dedicated volunteer staff","cons":"in the past have been too strict in their criteria for adopting out cats but with new leadership, the situation has greatly improved","description":"DAWS has had a wonderful group of volunteers over the years. They assisted us with gaining control of a horrible feral cat colony in Danbury. We couldn't have done it without them.","date_added":"1205090174","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23938","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Exemplary Adoption Process","username":"chrisben","rating":"5","pros":"Volunteers are the lifeblood of this organization and proud of it!","cons":"In need of funds to update facility","description":"Before purchasing a puppy, kitten, cat or dog from a breeder or storefront, please consider adopting from Danbury Animal Welfare Society. DAWS has perfected the adoption process and makes every attempt to match a person or family with their new companion.\\r\\n\\r\\nThe application process ensures that animals find the best, safe home and adopters have accurate expectations on the caring and needs of a their new family member. The streamline application process is directly related to the very low number of animal returns to DAWS.\\r\\n\\r\\nVisit DAWS at www.daws.org to see who is up for adoption now!\\r\\n","date_added":"1205033349","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23937","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"I like how DAWS runs its organization and genuinely cares for its dogs. ","username":"LindaStones","rating":"5","pros":"The dedication of the volunteers","cons":"The condition of the facility","description":"I like how DAWS runs its organization and genuinely cares for its dogs. I like how they focus on proper, healthy handling and training techniques to help the dogs learn healthy behaviors and feel secure, and, when necessary, break out of their shells. I like how they encourage their volunteers to learn how to properly handle and train the dogs. I like how they make sure that each dog is placed in a good home. (I've been a volunteer with DAWS now for almost a year and, I love seeing the dedication that the volunteers have for the organization and the dogs. Even though the facility is old and a bit depressing, the volunteers and staff keep the kennels and rooms very clean. ","date_added":"1205031134","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23935","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Outstanding Organization!","username":"mbarber8","rating":"5","pros":"caring volunteers","cons":"need more funds, upgrades, and volunteers","description":"Since I cannot have a cat where I'm currently living, I started volunteering at DAWS as a way to get my \"cat fix\" and help out at the same time. I'm so glad I did. I've been very impressed with how well the shelter is run. The animals receive top-notch care and lots of attention, love, and play time, of course! Everything is very organized and well-thought out, always keeping the animals' welfare as the number one priority. There are even clipboards to keep track of cat\/volunteer interactions to ensure that no kitty gets left out! Adoption counselors know the animals well and work hard to make sure they go to well-matched homes. Whether you'd like to volunteer or adopt a new friend, I'd highly recommend DAWS for a wonderful experience! ","date_added":"1204970136","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23934","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Amazing organization","username":"twosibes","rating":"5","pros":"Caring, dedicated volunteers","cons":"Only needs a makeover!!!","description":"DAWS is operated by a group of incredibly dedicated volunteers who work so hard to find wonderful forever homes for all the animals. I have been volunteering for a few years and I am amazed at everything this group is able to do. Everyone works so hard to give these dogs and cats a second chance, ensuring they are given lots of love and care while at the shelter, and helping them find true happiness with adopters. Amazing!","date_added":"1204958873","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23933","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"The really care","username":"wlp007","rating":"5","pros":"Caring folks","cons":"needs better facility","description":"These folks have the best interests of the cats and dogs at heart. They really make a big difference in the lives of so many animals (and the lucky people who adopt them!) We got our 5 kitties here and appreciated the care and support the volunteers gave us.","date_added":"1204924459","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23932","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Dedicated Volunteers!","username":"kmccue13","rating":"5","pros":"Knowledgeable, energetic staff\/volunteers","cons":"Needs a $1 million dollar makover from Zootoo.com to be perfect!","description":"As a former volunteer of DAWS, I can say that I have never seen a more dedicated group of people all working together for the welfare of animals. DAWS really deserves the zootoo.com makeover and I hope we can get you to the #1 spot in the next 25 days!","date_added":"1204848831","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23931","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"T. Do DAWS Review","username":"thaison","rating":"5","pros":"Great people.","cons":"The shelter is too small and in need of repairs.","description":"I've volunteered at DAWS for just over a year and it's one of the best shelters I've ever been part of. After my first dog passed away, they helped through the process of finding a new dog and making sure that I was ready to adopt a new dog. Their first priority is the well-being of the animal which is the way it should be. There's nothing worse than letting a dog or cat be adopted by anyone only to be neglected or abused later on.","date_added":"1204831695","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23930","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"I found my best friend at DAWS!","username":"TimDemp30","rating":"5","pros":"Caring, dedicated, sincere, friendly","cons":"None","description":"DAWS participates in the wonderful Save-a-Sato program. Satos come all the way from Puerto Rico to escape some very poor living conditions. At DAWS they are cared for by dedicated volunteers who help them get adopted into their forever homes. I adopted my Sato Sydney over four years ago and she is absolutely wonderful!\\n","date_added":"1204798177","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23929","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Wonderful shelter","username":"smproia","rating":"5","pros":"caring staff and volunteers","cons":"none","description":"The volunteers and shelter staff at DAWS are committed to improving the lives of the animals in their care. ","date_added":"1204797812","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23928","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is the best!","username":"Vmm86","rating":"5","pros":"Caring, kind shelter for homeless animals","cons":"none","description":"I am greatful to DAWS for being a safe-haven for homeless or abandoned pets. They are dedicated to the animals there and are an asset to the community. It would be an unbelievable gift for this worthy shelter to receive a make-over. ","date_added":"1204793383","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23927","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Best Place! ","username":"alyssab21","rating":"4","pros":"Great Volunteers! ","cons":"Very far from my home in New York! ","description":"I am now a volunteer at DAWS six months after adopting my new best friend, Izzy! Izzy is a Border Collie mix who has stolen my heart! Danbury Animal Welfare helped me every step of the way, from choosing the right to helping Izzy adjust to a new environment. I would recommend DAWS to anyone seriously considering adopting a pet! ","date_added":"1204772883","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23926","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"wonderful place","username":"scs061107","rating":"5","pros":"they take great care of their anamals","cons":"none","description":"DAWS it a great place . The staff and volunteers are great they are so frendly they all care so much about the cats and dogs if I was to get another pet I would go there !!!!!!!!","date_added":"1204695579","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23925","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Excellent","username":"lisamoliva","rating":"5","pros":"Very professional","cons":"none","description":"I have no hesitations on using the Danbury Animal Welfare Society.","date_added":"1204663374","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23924","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"The BEST of the BEST","username":"cosmothebrave","rating":"5","pros":"Loving and caring volunteers all the way providing the BEST service to our animals and our adopters alike!","cons":"Absolutely nothing","description":"A note: REMEMBER - rate DAWS a 5 if you think DAWS is great - some are not giving any rating which is the same as giving DAWS a number 1..... Volunteering and being part of such a humane and dedicated organization as DAWS is a GREAT experience. Everyone wants the absolute best for each cat and dog and it really shows. I'm so proud of my shelter!!!!!","date_added":"1204621470","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23923","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Where dogs find homes!","username":"KathyZurolo","rating":"5","pros":"Caring and dedicated volunteers and staff","cons":"In need of a makeover!","description":"DAWS has a team of volunteers and staff that transport dogs, give them medical care, train and socialize them and find them the perfect home! Now all the dogs need coming though the doors is a top-notch facility for their utmost comfort during their temporary stay.","date_added":"1204619417","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23922","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"The Wonderful DAWS","username":"Sixtus7","rating":"5","pros":"Fantastic All Around","cons":"No Cons","description":"Absolutely phenomenal shelter. Caring, respectful, knowledgeable... all the things you'd find in a first class shelter. The people are great, and the animals are well taken care of... what more can you ask?","date_added":"1204614124","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23921","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"What a Wonderful Place","username":"CoopyDoop","rating":"5","pros":"The place is very clean and the staff do a great job.","cons":"I'm not crazy about its location.","description":"I have had many dealings with the animal shelter and they have always be very professional. The animals are well taken care of and look good. ","date_added":"1204608173","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23920","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"They really care","username":"jbcat","rating":"1","pros":"Animals are treated with love and respect","cons":"needs a face lift","description":"I volunteer at this shelter and have the highest respect for the folks in charge. The animals get the medical care they need and are well loved til good homes are found. It would be a wonderful thing for the shelter to get a much-needed facelift!","date_added":"1204593635","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23919","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Incredible dedication, care, and attention to adoption detail","username":"Meezie","rating":"5","pros":"Fantastic volunteers, focus on making the right people\/animal match, strong socialization & training programs","cons":"Volunteer-run so open house hours are limited. Cramped quarters at the shelter and little space for people\/animal interaction","description":"I've been involved with this organization since 2003 and can't think of a better place to dedicate my volunteer hours. There are always challenges, especially since we're all volunteers, but we always manage through them because we know we're all after the same thing - to rescue animals and place them in loving homes and to end animal overpopulation in our area.\\n\\nOur shelter is literally falling apart, so I hope the zootoo team takes a long, hard look at us. Keep getting those points in, team!!","date_added":"1204592265","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23918","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Simply the Best..","username":"lawguy","rating":"1","pros":"Dedicated volunteer army helping neglected animals","cons":"An old & worn out building","description":"This is a dedicated volunteer led shelter that is in the forefront of saving and finding forever homes for the hundreds of neglected animals in their care. They are tireless, loyal & are sourred by doing the right thing by their charges. They fully vett all prospective adopters & work their magic to make every adoption a positive and seamless experience. They are simply the best!","date_added":"1204502341","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23917","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"I Love Helping DAWS","username":"DougElvis","rating":"5","pros":"Great Organization w\/ great Mission","cons":"Needs more funding","description":"This is a wonderful organization that my wife got me involved with. The volunteers are really dedicated, people gift of time is incredible and I know the feeling of being a \"shelter widower\" - but it is worth the it when you see all the good that comes out of the hard work. Please help them. ","date_added":"1204492143","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23916","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Rescuing Animals Is Great!","username":"Dogrescuer","rating":"1","pros":"wonderful army of volunteers and staff","cons":"we need a brand new facility so we can rescue more animals","description":"I have been volunteering at DAWS since 2001. It is a wonderful shelter with caring volunteers and staff. Each year we find forever homes for over 500 animals! It is wonderful for the animals and everyone involved! DAWS is the Best!","date_added":"1204385800","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23915","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Daws","username":"cosmo102","rating":"5","pros":"caring environment","cons":"needs a facelift","description":"We adopted our cats from DAWS and have great respect for the volunteers there. It's a good half-way house for animals while they wait for their forever homes. ","date_added":"1204382100","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23914","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"ketchie","rating":"5","pros":"Animals get the best care","cons":"needs a makeover!","description":"We adopted from DAWS then started volunteering. The animals are treated with love and respect; great care is taken to place them in loving homes. Here's hoping for winning a makeover!","date_added":"1204309713","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23913","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Proud Adopter and Volunteer","username":"barrod221","rating":"5","pros":"Great matching of owners and animals","cons":"We need a new shelter!","description":"I am happy to say that I adopted two awesome dogs from DAWS. I am a proud volunteer with this organization for the past 6 years. We have two great wishes: that all of our dogs and cats find loving forever homes and that we can build a new shelter.","date_added":"1204295971","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23912","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Helpful, caring staff","username":"staclinusa","rating":"5","pros":"1-on-1 attention given to all animals, dedicated volunteers","cons":"small space","description":"If you're looking for a furry friend and you're within driving distance of Danbury, DAWS should be your first stop. Not only do they have dogs and cats of all shapes, sizes, colors, etc, but each animal gets to interact with a person every day. Dogs that need a little more work before they're \"family ready\" work with a trainer regularly. They will make sure that the pet you adopt is the best one for your family.","date_added":"1204167966","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23911","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A true gem","username":"monkymom","rating":"1","pros":"wonderful volunteers","cons":"more space needed ","description":"Last year I adopted a cat from DAWS. Her name is Cassie and she's a beautiful tuxedo cat. All of the volunteers at the shelter were so friendly and helpful. They had such patience. I visited the shelter many times when making the choice of a new pet to adopt. The volunteers, especially Jenny, were so helpful and answered my many questions. I still send pics to Jenny so that she can share them with Cassie's foster mom so that she can see how well she is doing! I still visit the DAWS site on a regular basis and I get so excited to see when one of the animals I met gets adopted! Thank you DAWS.","date_added":"1204134071","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23910","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"blackiesdad","rating":"5","pros":"Great staff that goes the \"extra mile\" to care for animals.","cons":"Facilities could definitely use some \"updating.\"","description":"I'm impressed with the way that DAWS ensures that their animals go to responsible and caring families.","date_added":"1204081585","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23909","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A Great Place","username":"JenLucinda","rating":"5","pros":"No-Kill, Caring, Understanding, Compassionate, Overall care of the animals comes first.","cons":"A slightly long drive from where I live, but 100% worth it.","description":"I have been a volunteer since 2005 while I attended college. I was looking for somewhere to volunteer-a place that was close to school and had hours that were able to work with classes. While looking, I found DAWS and the first aspect of the shelter that caught my attention was the fact that DAWS was a no-kill shelter. I love animals of all kinds, but I do love cats the most, and being able to help socialize cats that were abused or strays is wonderful. I even used to occasionally miss a night class to help out. Now that I graduated college, its a decent drive to the shelter, but one I happily make just about every week.\\r\\nEveryone at DAWS are all about cats and dogs- the health and happiness of the animals comes first. The volunteers genuinely care for animals and make sure that they will get the best possible forever home. :o)","date_added":"1204080003","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23908","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWAS rescue shelter","username":"dunnek","rating":"5","pros":"volunteers are passionate about animal rescue; average 50 cat\/dog adoptions per month","cons":"the need to help homeless animals never ends!","description":"The volunteers who run the Danbury Animal Welfare Society rescue organization are dedicated, knowledgeable people who do the best they can each day, week and month to help homeless cats and dogs. They strive to find the best match between human and animal. Each dog and cat that passes through the door is special and touches lives. \\r\\n\\r\\nQuote: \"You can't change the world by adopting an animal, but you change that animal's life forever\"\\r\\n-Unknown","date_added":"1204079542","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23907","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"A shelter of caring people who truly love there animals","username":"salvatj","rating":"1","pros":"Loving, caring and generous volunteers and knowledgable staff","cons":"Small shelter, limited room","description":"Since working at this shelter, I am amazed at how our volunteers genuinely care about all our animals. The time and love they give is amazing and I am proud to be a part of it and make a difference with these people and help find these animals loving forever homes!","date_added":"1204072669","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23906","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS is devotion!","username":"pamelasb3","rating":"5","pros":"Every aspect is well thought out and executed with kindness & care","cons":"Not enough money funds to expand (just yet) ","description":"DAWS does it right -- the welfare of the animal comes first....their needs are met, then exceeded until they get their forever home. \\r\\n\\r\\nThere is a tremendous effort from the volunteers at DAWS; a sense of pride that is unwavering and the collective teamwork on behalf of the animals in their care is more than impressive. ","date_added":"1204072188","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23905","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"SAFE ANIMALS","username":"joni525","rating":"1","pros":"THE CONCERN AND CARE OF OUR ANIMALS IS #1","cons":"WE NEED MORE ROOM FOR THE OVER ABUNDANCE OF CREATURES THAT NEED A HOME","description":"I AM A VOLUNTEER WITH CATS. WE KEEP OUR CAGES AND ALL THE AREAS AS CLEAN AS CAN BE. WE SHOW AND GIVE THEM ALL LOVE, EVEN THOSE SHY ONES THAT HIDE. WE ARE A NON DESTROY.\\r\\nTHE DOGS ARE KEPT CLEAN AND WARM. EVERY INDIVIDUAL THAT VOLUNTEERS GIVES FROM THEIR HEART. \\r\\n\\r\\nOUR BABIES DESERVE MORE ROOM TO BE TREATED JUST LIKE OUR OWN. THANK YOU","date_added":"1204071419","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23904","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"DAWS","username":"ketcher","rating":"5","pros":"Staffed by very helpful, knowledgable, compassionate volunteers","cons":"None","description":"We adopted all of our cats from DAWS; the staff are very knowlegable and compassionate, willing to go that extra mile to make sure all of their animals are placed in loving, forever homes. ","date_added":"1204067027","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23903","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Responsible Organization","username":"lsignore","rating":"5","pros":"Do what they say","cons":"Not getting support from Danbury","description":"My daughter is a volunteer with this organization and the time and devotion of the team of volunteers is incredible. Kudos to all. ","date_added":"1204065403","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23902","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Find your best friend here at DAWS","username":"JaneHiller","rating":"1","pros":"dedicated group of volunteers","cons":"more funds and volunteers needed","description":"I've been volunteering at DAWS since 2002 and wish for a bright and prosperous future for the shelter. The volunteers are extremely dedicated and really put their heart and soul into caring for and finding forever homes for each animal that passes through our doors. ","date_added":"1203995222","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23901","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"Would Use this Organization","username":"mrsmcd","rating":"5","pros":"Great Organization - Great volunteers","cons":"None that I have found","description":"Unfortunately I did not get my present dog from DAWS but would definitely consider them for my next canine family member. I always support their fund drives. ","date_added":"1203913867","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"},{"id":"23900","bid":"83413","uid":"0","title":"So Glad to Help","username":"jaymeedee","rating":"5","pros":"So helpful and wonderful volunteers","cons":"Needs repairs and better advertising","description":"This is a wonderful shelter - they are like family and the volunteers are all so helpful and honestly love the animals ","date_added":"1203911614","date_modified":null,"is_external":"1","external_site_name":"zootoo","external_site_url":null,"external_user_profile":null,"status":"1"}]